Devon colic
Devon Colic
Devon Colic (pronunciation: /ˈdɛv.ən ˈkɒl.ɪk/) is a historical medical condition that was prevalent in the county of Devon, England during the 17th and 18th centuries. The term "colic" is derived from the Greek word "kolikos," referring to the colon where the pain is often felt. The prefix "Devon" is added to specify the geographical region where the condition was notably observed.
Etymology
The term "Devon Colic" is a combination of the name of the county "Devon" in England where the condition was first reported and the medical term "colic," which refers to severe, often fluctuating pain in the abdomen that is caused by the spasmodic contraction of the smooth muscles of the intestines or the gallbladder. The term "colic" is derived from the Greek word "kolikos," which means pertaining to the colon.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Devon Colic were severe abdominal pain and discomfort, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and constipation. The condition was also associated with peripheral neuropathy, characterized by weakness, numbness, and pain from nerve damage, usually in the hands and feet.
Causes
The cause of Devon Colic was traced to the consumption of cider made in lead-lined presses, which led to lead poisoning. The high levels of lead found in the cider were due to the use of lead-containing pesticides in apple orchards and the use of lead equipment in cider production.
Related Terms
- Lead Poisoning: A type of metal poisoning caused by lead in the body.
- Colic: A term used to describe severe, often fluctuating pain in the abdomen.
- Cider: A fermented beverage made from apple juice.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Devon colic
- Wikipedia's article - Devon colic
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