Colic

Question 1

What is colic

Answer 1

Characterised by high pitched crying for at least 3 hours a day, at least 3 days per week and for at least 3 weeks

May occur usually around the same time

Question 2

Colic symptoms

Answer 2

Difficult to comfort
Red in the face
High pitched crying
Knees drawn up to stomach

Question 3

Referral for colic

Answer 3

Inconsolable crying
Failure to put on weight

Question 4

Colic treatment

Answer 4

Effectiveness for treatment lacks evidence. Can be tried for 1 week to see if it helps

Lactase enzyme - Colief
Breaks down lactose in breast milk and formula

Simethicone - Infacol
Eliminates trapped gas

Question 5

Colic advice

Answer 5

Must reassure patients that their baby will grow out of it

Can suggest removing cow’s milk for 1 week as a trial

Massage the tummy in circular motions

Holding baby, rocking the baby, burping the baby, having warm baths