Infantile ‘colic’ (period of infant distress)

Question 1

Typical features

Answer 1

Syn. ‘period of purple crying’ or ‘crying and unsettled babies’

Baby 2–16 wks, esp. 10 wks

Prolonged crying in healthy child at least 3 h/day, 3d/week for 3 months

Crying during late afternoon and early evening

Child flexing legs, clenching fists as if ‘stomach ache’, passes gas, red face

Normal physical examination

Question 2

Management

Answer 2

Reassurance and explanation to the parents that it’s not a bowel disorder

Pacifying methods

Refer to paediatrician if concerned

Question 3

Medication

Answer 3

Avoid medications if possible but consider a trial of lactobacillus reuteri probiotics in breastfed babies.