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Symptom Checker

A Crying Baby Under 3 Months

Crying is one of the main ways a young baby communicates discomfort or a need. Babies younger than 3 months may cry because they are hungry, tired, overstimulated or need comfort.

Gas, reflux, colic, infection, pain, injury and other medical problems can also cause crying. Sometimes a healthy baby cries for long periods without a specific medical cause.

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AAP Guide for a Crying Baby Under 3 Months

The AAP guide below explains common causes of crying and when your baby needs medical care.

AAP Symptom CheckerA baby who will not stop crying

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Symptom CheckerA baby who will not stop crying New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The crying is new, unusual or very different from your baby’s normal cry.
  • Your baby has fever, vomiting, poor feeding or fewer wet diapers.
  • Your baby cannot be soothed and seems to be in pain.
  • You are worried that your baby is ill or injured.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your baby has severe trouble breathing.
  • Your baby is very difficult to wake, has a seizure or becomes limp.
  • Your baby has a serious injury or another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

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