Infants stiffen, draw up their legs and pass flatus. Colic is 1 of the leading reasons parents seek the advice of a pediatrician during their baby's first year. Colic is a poorly understood phenomenon. Although potentially adverse sequels have been described, it is generally believed the disorder is self-limited and benign. Since some feeding practices and crying may result in large amounts of air entering the gastric lumen, it is reasonable to assume that excessive aerophagia may be associated with colic.
Colonic fermentation is the second proposed source of excessive intestinal gas in infants.
No experimental evidence, however, supports either theory. Anticholinergic drugs, although proven effective, are not recommended because of their serious side effects. Parental anxiety can be minimized if the physician discusses colic, offers insight on future expectations, and answers parental questions. Reassure parents about the benign and self-limited nature of the illness. A caring, compassionate health care provider remains the cornerstone for the management of colic, a problem for which effective therapy remains elusive.