Infantile colic

Infantile colic is characterised by paroxysms of uncontrollable crying in an otherwise healthy and well-fed infant aged <5 months. The duration of crying is >3 hours per day, and >3 days per week, for at least 3 weeks.

The crying typically starts in the first weeks of life and ends by 4 to 5 months of age.

Food allergy may play a role in the pathogenesis.

The condition can be very stressful for the family.

Managed by supportive counselling, reassurance, and dietary modifications (if indicated).

Infantile colic is defined as paroxysms of uncontrollable crying or fussing in an otherwise healthy and well-fed infant aged <5 months. The duration of crying is >3 hours per day, and >3 days per week, for at least 3 weeks.[1]Wessel MA, Cobb JC, Jackson EB, et al. Paroxysmal fussing in infancy, sometimes called "colic." Pediatrics. 1954 Nov;14(5):421-35. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/13214956?tool=bestpractice.com The crying typically starts in the first weeks of life and ends by 4 to 5 months of age.