Signs of Colic (Pediatric intestinal pain)

Description

Characterized by episodes of excessive unexplained crying, fussiness to agonized screaming. Colic is not contagious and affects infants up to 5 months old and is more common in first born males. Some babies experience greater discomfort from 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 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 the legs may be drawn up, episodes last minutes to hours, babies feed normally despite the crying.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made by excluding other causes of the symptoms. Tests are generally done to rule out other causes such as: hernias, intussusception, a hair tourniquet, or a hair in the eye.

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, at times these can cause allergic reactions. Switching formulas may help with some babies. Slowing down the feeding time especially if less than 20 minutes may be beneficial as well. Avoid over feeding.