Colic is a severe, spasmodic pain that occurs in waves of increasing intensity, reaches a peak and then stops for a short time before returning. The intermittent increase in pain occurs when the muscles in the affected part of the body contract.

Babies with colic may cry inconsolably and do not seem to respond to usual means of comforting. Although these babies are healthy and show no sign of illness, that appear to be in pain.

Typically, colicky babies become irritable, go red in the face, draw up their legs and pass wind, which sometimes seems to provide relief. Episodes of colic tend to be worse in the evening.