Colic

last authored: April 2012, David LaPierre
last reviewed:

Introduction

Colic is defined by unexplained periods of irritability and crying for >3 hours/day, >3 days/week, >3 weeks, in an otherwise healthy, well-fed baby.

It is common, occurring in 10% of infants.

Onset tends to be from 10 days-3 months, with peak at 6-8 weeks.

Other reasons for crying include:

Ask about:

Past medical history

Family history

Social history

Perform a full physical exam, including weight, length, and vital signs.

Look for signs of abuse.

gastrointestinal: constipation, intussusception, incarcerated hernia

genitourinary: testicular tortion

Parents need adequate support and reassurance.

Cuddling, soother, car rides, music, vacuum, and diaper changes can all be helpful.

Medications have not been proven to work, but ovol or gripe water are used by many.

Diet:

elimination of cow's milk from the mother's diet helps in a small percentage of cases
casein hydrolysate formula may be helpful

Colic is generally believed to be caused by slowed development of normal GI peristalsis, but may also be due to a lack of self-soothing.

It appears to be associated with maternal anxiety or emotionality, and can be significant enough to trigger abuse.

authors:

reviewers: