What is Colic? 🤱😖
Colic refers to severe, often fluctuating pain in the abdomen caused by intestinal gas or obstruction in the intestines. It’s most commonly used to describe intense crying and fussiness in infants, but adults can experience colic too due to digestive issues.
Infant Colic
- Occurs in babies, usually starting a few weeks after birth and lasting up to 3-4 months
- Characterized by prolonged periods of crying and fussiness, often in the late afternoon or evening
- The baby may clench fists, pull legs up to the belly, and appear to be in pain
Causes of Colic
- In infants: Unknown exact cause, but possible reasons include digestive system immaturity, gas buildup, food sensitivities, or overstimulation
- In adults: Caused by spasms or blockages in the intestines (e.g., kidney stones, gallstones, bowel obstruction)
Symptoms
- Intense abdominal pain or discomfort
- Crying or restlessness (in infants)
- Bloating and gas
- Changes in bowel movements
Diagnosis
- Usually based on symptoms and physical examination
- In adults, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan may be needed to identify the cause
Treatment
- For infants: Soothing techniques (rocking, swaddling), feeding adjustments, and sometimes probiotics
- For adults: Treat underlying cause (e.g., removing obstruction), pain relief, and dietary changes
- Avoiding triggers like certain foods or stress
When to See a Doctor
- If pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or blood in stool
- For infants, if crying is excessive and hard to soothe