colic

spasmodic, severe abdominal pain that occurs in waves with brief interludes in between. Intestinal colic is usually the result of the presence of some indigestible food, which causes the contraction of the intestinal muscles. Infantile colic, common in young babies, is caused by wind associated with feeding. An attack of colic is generally not serious but can result in a twisting of the bowel, which must receive immediate medical attention. Colic - type pain may also be caused by an obstruction in the bowel, such as a tumour, which again requires early medical treatment.