Colic

Question 1

Causes

Answer 1

Crying for at least three hours a day a week and for at least three weeks in a healthy baby

Causes - unknown
Suggested lactose insensitivity, trapped wind

Question 2

Epidemiology

Answer 2

In the first few weeks of a baby’s life and it tends to resolve between 3-6 month of age

Question 3

Signs and symptoms

Answer 3

Bouts of crying lasting for minutes/hours
More often occur in the evening
First clenching and a flushed face and bringing their knees up to chest. Difficulty passing stool

Question 4

RED FLAG

Answer 4

Baby failing to thrive and suspected GORD

Question 5

Treatment

Answer 5

Simectone - dentinox, infacol - causes gas bubbles to coalesce

Lactase -Colief - helps break down the lactose found in milk

Gripe water (1-12 months) sodium bicarbonate and herbal remedies

Question 6

SELF CARE

Answer 6

Burping babies after feeds
Holding baby upright to help pass wind
Breastfeeding to improve mothers lifestyle
Bottle fed baby ensure best teat size