Devon colic

Devon colic was a condition that afflicted the people of Devon, England, in the 17th and 18th centuries. The term "colic" refers to severe abdominal pain and cramping, and the Devon colic was eventually linked to the consumption of cider made from apples containing high levels of lead. The source of this lead was the pressing equipment used in the cider-making process, which often incorporated lead components. Over time, the acidic juice would leach lead from the equipment, contaminating the cider.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The primary symptom of Devon colic was intense abdominal pain. Other symptoms included constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The condition could be chronic, with sufferers experiencing repeated episodes over months or years. Diagnosis at the time was based on the presentation of symptoms and the patient's history of cider consumption. It was not until later that the connection to lead poisoning, or Plumbism, was fully understood.

Historical Context

During the 17th and 18th centuries, cider was a common beverage in Devon and other parts of England, often consumed in place of water, which could be of questionable quality. The widespread occurrence of Devon colic highlights the unintended consequences of using certain materials in food and drink production. It wasn't until the work of Sir George Baker in the 18th century that a definitive link was made between the colic and lead-contaminated cider. Baker's findings were instrumental in reducing the use of lead in cider making and improving public health.

Treatment and Prevention

Before the cause of Devon colic was understood, treatments varied and often did not address the underlying lead poisoning. Common remedies included the use of opiates to relieve pain, herbal teas for detoxification, and bloodletting. With the identification of lead as the culprit, the focus shifted to preventing lead contamination in cider production. This included replacing lead components in cider presses with those made from safer materials, such as wood or iron.

Impact

The recognition of the cause of Devon colic and the subsequent changes in cider production practices were significant milestones in the field of public health. This episode is an early example of occupational and environmental health concerns leading to changes in industrial practices. It also underscores the importance of understanding the materials used in food and drink production and their potential impacts on health.

See Also

• Lead poisoning
• History of cider
• Occupational health
• Environmental health