Colic (adults)

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Other names for Colic (adults)

Abdominal Colic
Acute Abdominal Pain Episodes
Gastrointestinal Colic
Intestinal Spasms

Synopsis of Colic (adults)

In adults, colic refers to sudden, severe, cramping abdominal pain that comes and goes in waves. It usually results from the spasm or obstruction of a hollow organ such as the intestines, gallbladder, ureter (kidneys), or bile ducts. Unlike constant abdominal pain, colicky pain rises and falls in intensity and is often linked to the movement of contents through the digestive or urinary systems.

Adult colic can be caused by digestive issues like gas buildup, constipation, gallstones, kidney stones, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even infections. While mild colic may resolve on its own with supportive care, more severe or persistent pain requires medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions such as bowel obstruction, gallbladder inflammation, or kidney infections.

Types of Colic in Adults:

  • Intestinal Colic: Gas, constipation, bowel obstruction, or IBS-related spasms.

  • Biliary Colic: Pain caused by gallstones temporarily blocking the bile duct.

  • Renal Colic: Sharp pain caused by kidney stones moving through the urinary tract.

  • Ureteric Colic: Pain from stones or obstruction in the ureter.

Common Causes:

  • Gas buildup in the intestines

  • Constipation or bowel obstruction

  • Gallstones (biliary colic)

  • Kidney stones (renal colic)

  • Food intolerances or digestive disorders (e.g., lactose intolerance, IBS)

  • Gastroenteritis or infections

  • Overeating or consuming gas-producing foods

  • Abdominal surgery adhesions (scar tissue)

Severity Factors:

  • Duration and intensity of the pain episodes

  • Associated symptoms (vomiting, fever, inability to pass stool or gas, blood in urine)

  • Underlying conditions like gallbladder disease, kidney disease, or intestinal issues

When to See a Doctor:

  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain

  • Pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, or jaundice

  • Blood in stool or urine

  • Inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement (could suggest bowel obstruction)

  • History of gallstones or kidney stones with new or worsening pain

  • Significant swelling or tenderness in the abdomen

Natural remedies for Colic (adults)

Warm compress or heating pad: Applied to the abdomen to relax muscles and reduce spasms.

Gentle movement: Light walking can help stimulate intestinal motility and relieve gas-related colic.

Hydration: Drinking warm water or herbal teas supports digestion and soothes spasms.

Peppermint tea: Traditionally used to relieve digestive spasms (note: avoid if gallstones suspected).

Avoid gas-producing foods: Such as beans, carbonated drinks, and cruciferous vegetables during acute episodes.

Probiotic foods: Can help balance gut flora and reduce symptoms in cases of digestive colic.

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