Description
Characterized by episodes of excessive unexplained crying, fussiness to agonized screaming. Colic affects infants up to 5 months old and is more common in first born males. In some babies, it may be due to a greater sensitivity than usual to intestinal gas. Some cry from hunger, others from overfeeding. Some breastfed babies are intolerant of foods in their mothers' diets, and some bottle-fed babies are intolerant of the proteins in formula. When other people around them are worried, anxious, or depressed, babies with colic may cry more, which in turn makes those around them even more worried, anxious, or depressed. About 20% of babies cry enough to meet the definition of colic.
Symptoms
Sudden crying; during episodes of colic the legs may be drawn up, episodes last minutes to hours, babies feed normally despite the crying.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made by excluding other causes of the symptoms. Tests are generally performed to rule out other causes such as a hernia or intussusception.
Specialists:
Pediatrics, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made by excluding other causes of the symptoms. Tests are generally performed to rule out other causes such as a hernia or intussusception.
Specialists:
Pediatrics, Family Practice
Treatment
Breast-feeding mothers should avoid stimulants such as caffeine and chocolate. Mothers should also try eliminating dairy products and nuts for a few weeks. Switching formulas may help with some babies. Slowing down the feeding time may be beneficial as well. Avoid over feeding. Home remedies that may be helpful include gentle motion, singing and providing background noise (such as an electric fan).