Colic is something new parents hear a lot about, but unless you've experienced it first-hand, it can be difficult to understand. About 25 percent of infants experience colic at some point in the first few months of life. And because it can be difficult to differentiate colic from everyday fussiness, parents can't always be sure whether or not their child is suffering from colic.

To help determine if colic is making your baby unhappy, consider the tips below.

Most babies cry everyday, for one reason or another. However, when a baby is experiencing colic, crying bouts may last longer and be more intense than regular fussiness.

Colic is usually described as frequent and persistent bouts of crying, lasting more than three hours a day and continuing for more than three weeks at a time. During a crying bout, your baby may clench his fists, arch his back or tense his muscles. He will be inconsolable.

Colic can be predictable. Some infants experience the symptoms of colic at about the same time everyday, and for the same amount of time.

Colic will usually appear a few weeks after birth and most babies grow out of it by 6 months of age.

If you think your baby has colic, a visit to your child's doctor is in order. In addition, there are numerous products and even medications that can help your child. Be patient and understanding and consider soothing techniques to help your baby. Try swaddling, singing or infant massage to help your infant get through his bout. Also, switching to vented bottles that reduce air bubbles can also help.