Every parent sooner or later encounters a situation where their baby wakes up at night and starts crying hysterically. This can be a distressing experience that causes concern and makes us want to quickly find the cause and a way to soothe the little one. What could be the reason for such night-time episodes, and how can you deal with them?
Most Common Causes of Hysterical Crying in Infants
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Hunger
Infants have small stomachs and digest food quickly, so they often wake up hungry, especially in the first months of life. If crying occurs regularly at specific times, it is worth checking whether the baby needs feeding. -
Colic and Digestive Problems
Infant colic is a common issue that manifests as sudden, intense crying, especially in the evening and at night. It may be caused by gas buildup in the intestines, food intolerance, or an immature digestive system. Belly massages, a warm compress, or appropriate digestive drops can be helpful. -
Teething
The process of teething can be painful and cause discomfort for the baby, especially at night. If your infant is putting their hands in their mouth, drooling excessively, and appears irritable, it may be helpful to use a soothing gel for the gums or special teething toys. -
Fear and Nightmares
Even very young children can experience sudden fears or awakenings triggered by strong stimuli. Loud noises, changes in the environment, or even nightmares can lead to hysterical crying. Establishing a calm and predictable bedtime routine can help the baby feel secure. -
Unsuitable Sleep Conditions
A baby may wake up due to overheating, cold, dry air, or uncomfortable clothing. Check the room temperature (ideally 18–21°C) and ensure the baby is dressed appropriately – preferably in a cotton pajama and a sleeping bag instead of a blanket. -
Need for Closeness
Newborns and infants need contact with their parents to feel safe. If your baby suddenly starts crying at night, they may simply want to be cuddled or hear the familiar voice of their mom or dad.
How to Soothe an Infant During Night Crying?
✔ Stay calm – babies sense their parents' emotions, so the more composed you are, the easier it will be for the baby to calm down.
✔ Gently rock and cuddle – the closeness and warmth of a parent have a soothing effect on the baby.
✔ Offer a pacifier or feeding – if the baby is hungry or needs to suck to self-soothe, it's worth allowing them to do so.
✔ Use white noise – the sound of a hairdryer, vacuum cleaner, or special white noise apps help some babies fall asleep.
✔ Check the diaper and clothing – make sure nothing is causing discomfort.
✔ Create a bedtime routine – a bath, massage, soothing music, and dimming the lights at least 30 minutes before sleep help calm the baby. Instead of bright overhead lighting, use a night lamp with adjustable brightness to create a peaceful sleep environment.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If crying is exceptionally intense, lasts a long time, or is accompanied by other symptoms (e.g., fever, vomiting, rash), it is worth consulting a pediatrician. This could be a sign of an illness or a condition requiring medical attention.
Conclusion
Hysterical crying in infants at night is a common issue but is usually due to natural causes such as hunger, teething, the need for closeness, or fears. The key is patience, observation, and adapting to the baby’s needs. Every little one is different, so it's worth trying different methods to find what works best for your child.
Has your baby experienced such night-time episodes? How do you deal with night crying? Share your experiences in the comments!
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