Devon colic

Devon colic was a condition that affected people in Devon during parts of the 17th and 18th centuries before it was discovered to be lead poisoning.

The first written account of the colic comes from 1655. Symptoms began with severe abdominal pains and the condition was occasionally fatal. Cider is the traditional drink of Devonians, and the connection between the colic and cider drinking had been observed for many years. The condition was commonly attributed to the acidity of the beverage.