Final answer:
Colic is a term for abdominal pain in a horse, caused by various factors including parasites, diet changes, or toxic plants. In humans, similar symptoms may be caused by liver cysts or GI infections, and severe inflammation of the peritoneum is known as peritonitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Colic is a general term for any abdominal pain in a horse. It can stem from a variety of issues, including but not limited to internal parasites, ingestion of sand or toxic plants, sudden changes in diet, or the presence of abdominal masses. In humans, similar abdominal discomfort can arise from various conditions affecting the digestive system, such as cysts in the liver or lungs, which may cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Additionally, infections and intoxications of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can lead to overall symptoms like fever and diarrhea, with localized inflammation resulting in conditions such as gastritis, enteritis, hepatitis, or colitis. When the peritoneum is inflamed, a severe and life-threatening condition known as peritonitis can occur, necessitating emergency interventions.