AIM: The diagnosis of infantile colic is based on excessive crying. However,
several causal factors can account for this disconcerting, nonspecific symptom.
The main aim of this study was to investigate a possible association between
excessive crying during the first 6 months of life and subsequent ear problems.
METHODS: Data from a cohort study of 26 983 Danish children were used. Mothers
participated in four telephone interviews and one questionnaire and provided
information on crying in the first 6 months of life and ear symptoms at the ages
of 6 months, 18 months and 7 years.
RESULTS: There was a statistically significant association between excessive
crying in infancy and subsequent ear symptoms. A gradual increase in subsequent
ear problems was seen with increasing crying time at all the data collection
times.
CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest a possible link between excessive
crying and ear infections. Whether such a link is causal or due to common
underlying factors is still unknown. We recommend thorough ear examinations in
children with symptoms compatible with infantile colic.
©2014 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
PMID: 24460724 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]