While “colic” is often associated with infants, adults can also experience severe, cramping abdominal pain that shares similar characteristics. This type of pain in adults often signals an underlying medical condition requiring attention.
Understanding Infant Colic
Infant colic describes a common condition where an otherwise healthy baby cries inconsolably for prolonged periods. While its exact cause is not fully understood, it is often linked to digestive discomfort or an immature digestive system. This condition is generally temporary and resolves as the infant matures.
Is “Colic” a Diagnosis for Adults?
The term “colic” is not a formal medical diagnosis for adults. For adults, “colic” typically refers to the nature of the pain. It describes a sharp, localized abdominal or urinary pain that arises abruptly and often comes and goes in spasmlike waves. This intense pain can last minutes to hours, sometimes recurring over weeks or months. It often occurs in hollow organs like the intestines, gallbladder, kidneys, or ureters, usually due to an obstruction.
Common Causes of Colic-Like Pain in Adults
Many distinct medical conditions can cause severe, cramping abdominal pain in adults. These conditions frequently involve spasms as the body attempts to overcome an obstruction or irritation within a hollow organ. Such pain can be a symptom of conditions ranging from common digestive issues to more serious concerns.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition characterized by abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits like diarrhea or constipation. The pain in IBS can be felt anywhere from the chest to the pelvis and is often relieved after a bowel movement.
Gallstones
Gallstones can cause biliary colic, a sudden, severe pain typically in the upper right abdomen or under the ribs, which may spread to the back or shoulder. This pain occurs when a gallstone temporarily blocks a bile duct, often after a fatty meal, and can last for minutes to several hours.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can lead to renal colic, characterized by intense pain in the flank or lower abdomen that often radiates to the groin. This pain usually comes in waves lasting 20 to 60 minutes and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or painful urination.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis, an inflammation of pouches in the colon, typically causes sudden or gradually worsening pain in the lower left abdomen, though it can occur on the right. Associated symptoms may include fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea.
Other Causes
Severe gas and bloating can also cause generalized abdominal discomfort and cramping. Food intolerances, where the digestive system struggles to break down certain foods, commonly result in abdominal pain, gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Gastroenteritis, or “stomach flu,” involves inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less common but serious conditions like appendicitis or bowel obstruction can present with severe, colicky abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting.
When to Seek Medical Attention and What to Expect
Persistent, severe, or unexplained abdominal pain warrants medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause. Seek immediate medical attention if abdominal pain is accompanied by a fever, persistent nausea or vomiting, bloody stools, or unexplained weight loss. Additionally, severe tenderness when touching the abdomen, swelling, or pain that radiates to other areas like the chest or shoulder, should prompt medical consultation.
During a medical visit, a healthcare provider will typically begin by taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination. This involves inspecting the abdomen, gently pressing on different areas to check for tenderness or swelling, and listening to bowel sounds. Depending on the initial findings, various diagnostic tests may be ordered. These can include blood tests to check for infection or inflammation, urine tests, or stool cultures.
Imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scans, or X-rays visualize internal organs. In some cases, endoscopy or colonoscopy may be necessary. The management plan will then focus on treating the specific underlying cause, which may involve dietary adjustments, medication, or other medical interventions.