The dream: Your baby sleeps through the night after just a few weeks, gurgles happily while you run errands and only fusses when hunger strikes.

The reality: Your baby's favorite playtime is after the 2 a.m. feeding. Crankiness peaks when you're out and about. You had no idea a baby could cry this much.

Sound familiar?

In any given day, the average newborn cries for more than two hours. Find out why babies cry — and how to cope with the tears.

A feeding or diaper change may be enough to stop tears in their tracks. Sometimes it takes more effort — and sometimes there's nothing you can do but comfort your baby as the crying runs its course.

I'm hungry!
Most newborns eat every few hours around the clock. If your baby is hungry, it's time for a nursing session or bottle.

Some babies become frantic when hunger strikes. They may get so worked up by the time the feeding begins that they gulp air with the milk, which may cause spitting up or more crying.

To avoid such frenzy, respond to early signs of hunger. Rocking, cuddling or another soothing activity may help calm your baby before the feeding. If your baby begins to gulp during the feeding, take a break.

I need to burp!
During and after each feeding, take time to burp your baby. But don't stop there. Your baby may need to burp between feedings as well.

I pooped!
For some babies, a wet or soiled diaper is a sure-fire way to trigger tears. Gas or indigestion may have the same effect. Check your baby's diaper often to make sure it's clean and dry.

I'd rather be bundled.
Some babies feel most secure in a swaddle wrap. Try this:

• Spread a receiving blanket or other small, lightweight blanket on the floor.
• Fold down one corner of the blanket.
• Lay your baby face-up on the blanket, with his or her head on the folded corner.
• Pick up the right or left side of the blanket. Pull it over your baby and tuck it snugly beneath him or her on the other side.
• Fold up the bottom of the blanket to cover your baby's feet.
• Wrap the other side of the blanket around your baby. Keep his or her head and neck exposed.

It's time for a nap!
Tired babies are often fussy. Make sure your baby is getting enough sleep. For newborns, this often means up to 16 hours — or even more — every day.

Look for early signs of drowsiness, such as fussing, drooping eyelids and rubbing the eyes. Responding to these early cues may help you avoid full-blown bawling if your baby becomes overtired.

Where is everyone?
If your baby's feeling lonely, simply seeing you, hearing your voice or being cuddled may stop the tears. In fact, babies who are held or carried during most of their waking hours are less fussy than those left in a crib or infant seat. Some babies who squirm and struggle when you try to hold them respond to gentle massage or light pats on the back.

I want to move!
Sometimes a rocking session or rhythmic walk through the house is enough to soothe a crying baby. In other cases, a change of position is all that's needed. Keeping safety precautions in mind, try a baby swing or vibrating infant seat. Weather permitting, head outdoors with the stroller. You may even want to buckle up for a ride in the car.

Who turned up the heat?
A baby who's too hot or cold is likely to be uncomfortable. Add or remove a layer of your baby's clothing as needed.

What did you feed me?
If you're breast-feeding your baby, he or she may be fussier than usual after you eat spicy or gas-producing foods. Too much caffeine may be an issue as well. If you suspect a certain food is causing trouble, avoid it for several days to see if it makes a difference.

A few babies cry after feedings because they have trouble digesting a certain type of formula. Ask your baby's doctor if a formula switch may be in order.

I'd really like to suck on something.
Sucking is a natural reflex. For many babies, it's a comforting, soothing activity. If your baby isn't hungry, try a clean finger or pacifier.

Enough already!
Too much noise, movement and visual stimulation may drive your baby to tears. Move to a calmer environment or place your baby in the crib. "White noise" — such as a recording of ocean waves or the monotonous sound of an electric fan, vacuum cleaner or ticking clock — may help your baby relax.

It's just that time of day.
Many babies have predictable periods of fussiness during the day. There may be little you can do to prevent these episodes.

An estimated 5 percent to 25 percent of babies have frustrating periods of intense, inconsolable crying known as colic.

Colic is often defined as crying more than three hours a day, three days a week for more than three weeks in an otherwise well-fed, healthy baby.

Colic episodes are most common in the late afternoon or evening. The crying often begins suddenly and for no apparent reason. During an episode, your baby may be difficult — or even impossible — to comfort.

What causes colic remains a mystery. If you're concerned about colic, consult your baby's doctor. He or she can make sure your baby is otherwise healthy and help you learn how to care for a colicky baby.

It's tough to listen to your baby cry. To take the best care of your baby, it's important to take care of yourself, too.

• Take a break. When you've done what you can, ask your spouse or another loved one to take over for a while. Take advantage of baby-sitting offers from friends or neighbors. Even an hour on your own can help renew your coping strength.
• Make healthy lifestyle choices. Eat healthfully. Make time for exercise, such as a brisk daily walk. If you can, sleep when the baby sleeps — even during the day. Avoid alcohol and other drugs.
• Remember that it's temporary. For most babies, crying spells often peak at about six weeks and then gradually decrease.
• Know when to call the doctor. If you're concerned about the crying or your baby isn't eating, sleeping or behaving like usual, call your baby's doctor. He or she can help you tell the difference between normal tears and something more serious.
• Recognize your limits. If your baby's crying is causing you to lose control, put the baby in a safe place — such as a crib — and go to another room to collect yourself. Contact your doctor, a local crisis intervention service or a mental health help line for support.