COLIC, which can impact adults, is frequently related with babies who cry a lot. Colic is frequently described in adults as an abrupt gastrointestinal or urination pain that gradually gets better.

According to general, laparoscopic and bariatric surgeon Dr Alfred Dawes, localised, intermittent discomfort in the bladder or abdomen is the primary sign of colic.

Dr Dawes said colic happens when a hollow internal body organ, such as the intestines, gall bladder, rectum, kidneys, or ureters, becomes blocked. He said, the muscles around the impediment contract vigorously in an effort to remove it, which results in painful spasms and gallstones and kidney stones are two of the blockages that cause colic most frequently. In addition, he said sometimes it is actual faeces that casues what is termed as a pseudo or false obstrcution and when trying to pass hard faeces (from overeating or not drinking enough water) the cramping pain starts and comes in waves.

“An acute discomfort that progressively lessens might continue for up to five hours during a colic episode. A lingering discomfort may last for up to 24 hours. A person is more likely to experience further episodes of colic after one,” he said.

Moreover, during the Christmastime, it is customary for individuals to experience colic often caused from overeating and gas from foods eaten, for example, dairy if lactose intolerant and flour for those with gluten intolerance.

So while we enjoy the likes of our hams, variety of meats, savouries, sweets, and delicious treats we don’t have year-round, be mindful not to overdo it or take risks and end up with an uncomfortable ending to what should be a day of festivities.

Below Dr Dawes shares ways to prevent colic and in the event it happens, several treatments and home remedies.

Prevention

The key is to take action to maintain the health of your digestive system. Among the actions to take are:

Eating a diet high in fibre (that means plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains)

Maintaining hydration

Avoiding foods high in fat

Losing weight if necessary

At-home remedies for colic episodes include:

Keeping hydrated by drinking lots of water

Taking ibuprofen or paracetamol to ease pain

Applying a hot water bottle to the sore spot to relieve pain

Rub or lightly massage the afflicted region

Following a colic diagnosis, a doctor might suggest one of the following treatments:

Pharmaceuticals to treat illnesses, anti-inflammatory treatments, and painkillers to alleviate symptoms

Surgery to explore intestinal obstructions, remove kidney stones, or remove the gallbladder

Stone-melting medications shock-wave therapy, which can shatter stones into small pieces

When to seek medical help

The majority of colic episodes end within a few hours, but if they persist frequently, it is preferable to see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Anyone exhibiting any of the following signs and symptoms ought to consult a doctor immediately:

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)

Long-lasting abdominal discomfort or abdominal pain that is so severe that it is impossible to find relief from it in any position

Cold and a high temperature

A quick heartbeat

Being unable to drink without throwing up

Continual vomiting

Moreover, Dr Dawes said colic comes in waves of pain that comes and goes, therefore any pain that is constant and unremitting can be a sign of something serious and should never be attributed to colic.