Pediatrician explains colic mystery
By Glenna Picton
All babies scream, but some babies suffer from an unexplained irritability that has left parents and pediatricians stumped for years. Experts at Baylor College of Medicine think they may have solved the colic mystery – that it may not be a disease, but rather a description of a baby's behavior when experiencing acid reflux.
In his new book, "Colic Solved," Bryan Vartabedian, assistant professor of pediatrics-gastroenterology at BCM, explains the concept.
Treatable condition
"Colic is a dated term initially coined in 1954, when we knew very little about babies and why they do what they do," said Vartabedian. "Through advances in medical science we know that a lot of these babies have treatable conditions like acid reflux disease and milk protein allergy."
Recognition of reflux and other treatable problems in infants is still a relatively new concept, but it is backed up with research, Vartabedian said. Recent studies have suggested that up to 60 to 70 percent of babies previously thought to have colic actually had the gastroenterology-related, treatable issues.
Warning signs
When should new parents suspect their child has these issues? Vartabedian outlines the following warning signs that indicate your baby may have acid reflux.
- Spitting and vomiting
- Constant hiccups
- Feeding disturbances
- Chronic irritability
- Discomfort when lying on the back
- Sleep disturbance
- Chronic cough and/or congestion
In addition to professional experience, personal experience motivated Vartabedian to write the book. He is a father of two former acid reflux babies. "The blinding fatigue that a parent experiences with an inconsolable baby is a very powerful thing," said Vartabedian.
Parent empowerment
Vartabedian insists that the bottom line and most important message is parent empowerment. He is helping to meet parent's expectations when it comes to knowledge of their children's problems and how to get help.
"I hope that my book creates a dialogue on the issue of infant irritability and opens up awareness to treatable conditions," said Vartabedian. "Parents need to be sure that their doctor is considering all options."
