7 Reasons Your Baby Is Crying and How to Help

Jan Tilley, a former midwife with four decades of NHS experience, shares insights on why babies cry and offers practical solutions—along with tips for traveling with a newborn.

Last year, over 679,100 infants were born in England and Wales, and one thing they all share is the tendency to cry.

Although it would be much easier if newborns could vocalize their needs, many first-time parents find themselves overwhelmed, unsure of what might be causing their baby to scream.

Whether you’re on vacation with a little one or adjusting to life at home with bottles and diapers, there’s no substitute for expert advice to ease anxiety and offer effective strategies grounded in experience.

Jan Tilley (left) is a seasoned midwife in her sixties, focused on assisting with common baby health issues.

With 40 years dedicated to guiding new parents through the challenges of caring for newborns, Tilley has encountered nearly every typical baby concern.

In this informative holiday baby care guide, Tilley speaks with Healthista’s editor Anna Magee, sharing her extensive knowledge and comforting voice in a detailed exploration of common reasons that lead to infant crying, particularly while traveling, along with effective remedies.

Reason for Crying #1: AIR PRESSURE

Tilley explains, “Flying with a newborn can begin as early as two days post-birth,” but advises checking with the airline due to varying policies on minimum travel age for infants.

When flying, babies can experience blocked noses similar to adults, which is particularly uncomfortable for their ears.

As a result, parents may find themselves dealing with an inconsolable baby until they discover effective soothing techniques.

“Crying often occurs because the baby feels severe discomfort as air pressure impacts their eustachian tubes,” Tilley clarifies.

“This tube connects the nasal cavity to the middle ear, resulting in painful sensations,” she adds.

Much like adults are advised to suck on sweets for pressure relief, providing a pacifier for the baby can alleviate this discomfort by helping to equalize pressure.

Tilley reassures that if the baby has a blocked nose, they will instinctively reject the pacifier if breathing is compromised.

Reason for Crying #2: CONGESTION

A newborn lacks the ability to clear their nose like older children, so parents should be vigilant for crusty residue around their little one’s nostrils, signaling a potential nasal blockage.

However, parents need not fret if it seems their infant is frequently congested; Tilley emphasizes that exposure to mild viruses helps strengthen their immune systems.

The NHS notes an average baby can expect to experience approximately eight colds each year.

Solutions: “Using saline nasal drops can effectively relieve a congested nose,” Tilley suggests. “Snufflebabe nasal drops (£3.05 for drops and £4.07 for spray from Boots) are gentle and convenient for travel.”

“These saline drops dissolve dried mucus, and applying them just before takeoff can help prevent congestion,” says Tilley.

However, if there’s significant mucus buildup, she recommends following the drops with a baby nasal aspirator.

Tilley endorses the Snufflebabe Nasal Aspirator (£8.49 from Boots) for its hygienic design, capturing mucus in a reservoir rather than in the parent’s mouth.

Reason for Crying #3: COLIC

According to Tilley, distinct crying patterns can indicate colic, typified by high-pitched wails accompanied by the baby drawing their knees to their chest, often resulting in a flushed face.

Colic refers to excessive, frequent crying in otherwise healthy infants, impacting about one in five babies and typically resolving by six months of age.

This crying frequently escalates during late afternoons or evenings, leaving parents feeling drained.

What to do: “Exercise patience and create a calm environment, as babies can pick up on tension,” Tilley recommends. “Holding and comforting them can help.”

Over-the-counter colic drops, like those from Dentinox (starting at £2.02 at Boots), can also provide relief if gas accumulation is the source of discomfort.

However, parents should consult a doctor if the baby shows continuous high-pitched crying, seems lethargic, is refusing feedings, is vomiting, has a fever over 38°C (for under three months) or 39°C (for three to six months), or exhibits blue, blotchy, or pale skin.

Reason for Crying #4: HEAT RASH

When visiting warmer climates, Tilley notes that heat rash is a common cause of discomfort in babies unaccustomed to higher temperatures.

Heat rash typically presents as raised, blotchy skin with small red spots, reminiscent of adult prickly heat, but is more challenging for a baby’s immature skin to tolerate.

“While heat rash isn’t life-threatening, it can be extremely uncomfortable,” Tilley cautions.

Solutions: “Wipe baby down with a damp cloth using lukewarm water, keep them in a cool area, and dress them in breathable cotton instead of synthetic fabrics,” she advises.

To avoid overheating, use a fan in the room without directing it straight at the baby. Apply calamine lotion (£1.25 at Superdrug) to soothe any heat rash symptoms.

If the rash is accompanied by a high fever, seek medical attention.

Reason for Crying #5: ENVIRONMENTAL IRRITANTS

Tilley points out that exposure to smoke, allergens, or irritants prevalent in foreign environments, including dry air and pollen, can cause distress in babies, especially if they’re not acclimated to their new surroundings.

What to watch for: “Monitor for coughing or unusual nasal mucus,” she advises. “If your baby appears sensitive to their new environment, applying vapor rub (only for babies over three months) to their belly can help.”

During the day, keep the baby upright in a swing to help mucus drain, and at night, use a bowl of warm water with a few drops of eucalyptus or tea tree oil to promote easier breathing.

While pillows are not recommended for babies, a rolled towel can be positioned under the mattress to slightly elevate the baby’s head.

Reason for Crying #6: DIARRHEA AND VOMITING

Tilley emphasizes the severity of a crying baby due to diarrhea or vomiting, primarily due to the risk of dehydration, which can become critical as infants can deteriorate rapidly.

Breastfed babies generally have lower instances of gastrointestinal distress, encouraging healthier immune responses.

What to do: “Seek medical help immediately and begin administering small amounts of cooled, boiled water to your baby using a dropper or bottle,” Tilley advises.

Reason for Crying #7: DEHYDRATION

It’s vital for parents to recognize dehydration signs in their infants, especially during travel to warm climates or in extreme heat.

Tilley emphasizes that breastfeeding substantially reduces the risk of dehydration since mothers can feed on demand.

Suggestions: “Allow breastfeeding freely and provide bottle-fed babies with their regular formula along with extra boiled, cooled water throughout the day,” she suggests.

Watch for dehydration symptoms, such as dry lips, a rasping cough, or a sunken fontanelle, which necessitate immediate medical attention.

For additional assistance, check out support organizations like Cry-sis, reachable at 0845 122 8669. They offer resources specifically aimed at helping parents cope with crying infants.

Visit the NHS website for further guidance and information.