STOMACH CRAMPS - Identifying Causes of Stomach Cramps and Its Treatments

BY A R ON AUGUST 22, 2011 

Cramping of the stomach can occur in different ranges of severity. It is the pain or discomfort that is often felt in the area of the abdomen. Most of the time it is a minor problem but it can be a symptom of another more serious disease. These cramps are sharp alternating contractions that produce a painful squeezing sensation. It may affect only a small part of the abdomen or it can cause pain throughout the whole abdomen.

Causes of Stomach Cramps

Stomach cramps can be a result of another problem. Here are the following causes of stomach cramps.

Gastrointestinal Factors:

• Inflammation of the appendix
• Constipation
• Gastritis
• Viral infection
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Inflammation of the pancreas
• Allergy to certain types of food
• Food poisoning
• Liver problems

Gynecological Factors:

• Menstruation
• Labor in giving birth, miscarriage or other complications of pregnancy
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

Other factors:

• Strenuous exercise
• Bladder problems
• Trauma or injury
• Tumor

What are the Treatment for Stomach Cramps

Here are some tips to minimize and to provide relief from stomach cramps:

• Observe a healthy and balanced diet.
• Drink plenty of water when constipated. Eat foods high in fiber.
• Substitute skim milk to other dairy products which can cause lactose intolerance.
• Take time to relax because stress is also a big contributor to stomach cramps.
  
  
• The use of warm compress may also work wonders.
• Exercise may work for some people especially in cases where stomach muscles are the source of the stomach cramps. This way, the muscles are relaxed or stretched out, relieving the patient of the pain that is felt.
• Lie on back and rub stomach upwards and downwards rhythmically.
• Drink herbal liquids or teas which aid in digestion and relax the body. Mint, chamomile, and ginger teas may be best.
• Take a trip to the toilet.
• Breathe in and out slowly, at the same time stretch. Drink carbonated beverages which will trigger gas to pass.

Diagnosing stomach cramps

In order for the physician to determine the problems of the patient, understanding the history of the patient as well as undergoing a fully physical examination may be needed. In most cases, basic investigations include:

• Urinalysis
• Chest X-ray or imaging of the abdomen
• Blood tests that include full data regarding blood count, urea, electrolytes, liver function tests, pregnancy test, lipase, and amylase tests.
• Computed tomography of the pelvis and abdomen
• Colonoscopy and endoscopy
• Pelvic or abdominal ultrasound

Source: http://www.simple-remedies.com/