1. <symptom> Gradual onset of pain that increases in a crescendo fashion until it reaches a peak of severity and then slowly
subsides.
2. <paediatrics> A syndrome in early infancy characterised by
episodic loud crying, apparent abdominal pain (legs drawn up and rigid abdomen) and irritability. This common condition occurs in about 1 in
10 babies and lasts from 2-3 weeks of age to 3-4 months.
Factors include swallowing air during feedings, overfeeding, parental anxiety and cow's milk allergy. Parents should realize that
colic is a benign condition and excessive crying is not harmful to the baby.
(27 Sep 1997)
