A physical examination for colic helps your health professional determine whether there are other causes for the baby's crying. The health professional will carefully examine the baby from head to toe, including:

• Measuring the baby's head circumference, body length, and weight. These measurements will be plotted on a growth chart to assess whether your baby is growing as expected for his or her age. Colic does not affect growth and development.
• Examining the baby's abdomen and rectum for signs of intestinal conditions.

If the health professional suspects that infections or other illnesses may be causing the crying, he or she will look for other conditions, such as ear infections. If the health professional suspects that the baby has been shaken, he or she may examine the baby for signs of shaken baby syndrome.