Large cohort study finds a statistically significant association between excessive crying in early infancy and subsequent ear symptoms

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Aetiology; Earache; Excessive crying; Infancy; Infantile colic.