Epidemiology
- Colic is very common affecting 10-30% of infants33.
- Both sexes are affected equally.
- Feeding strategy does not appear to affect incidence.
- Preterm infants and those small for gestational age appear to be at increased risk34.
Aetiology
- Research has yet to identify the underlying cause.
- Suggested aetiologies include:
- Abnormal gastrointestinal motility and pain signals from sensitised pathways in the gut viscera35
- Inadequate amount of lactobacilli and increased concentration of coliforms within the gut flora36
- Behavioural issues such as family tension, parental anxiety or inadequate parent-infant interaction37
Image caption: Lactobacilli