ABDOMINAL CRAMPS

Abdominal cramps are caused by involuntary muscle contractions that can be very painful. Cramps or pain may occur when any of the muscles in the abdomen or in the walls of the bowels are stretched or strained. Because many internal organs are located in this region, it is hard to know the exact cause of cramping without further investigation.

Cramps in the abdomen can occur from:

food moving through the stomach and intestines
mild food poisoning that is usually accompanied by diarrhea
stress and anxiety
gastritis (an inflammation of the stomach lining)
menstruation
disease or infection in the uterus and
pregnancy, childbirth, and changing hormone levels during breast-feeding

Symptoms such as rumbling and gurgling noises, belching, passing gas, nausea, or vomiting may be felt. Diarrhea or constipation may occur. Urinary problems or loss of hunger may also be present.

Using a heating pad, a covered hot water bottle, or a warm bath may help relieve abdominal cramps. Try eating smaller, more frequent meals at regular times and drinking more fluid. It is helpful to eat when you can sit and relax. Decrease or stop using caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco as they tend to irritate the bowel.

There are many over-the-counter medications to deal with these common symptoms. Gas and bloating might be relieved with gas reducing medications (Mylicon, Gas-X). Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums) can help indigestion, heartburn, and nausea. Be sure to replace lost fluids by drinking liquids. Stress-related cramps may respond to meditation or a warm bath.

More serious conditions, such as appendicitis or gall bladder attacks, will usually cause severe and constant cramping. If you have cramps that last more than one-half hour, and are not related to menstruation, or a known digestive condition (such as colitis), call your healthcare provider. Do not take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications or laxatives until you speak with your healthcare provider.

Be prepared to report:

in what area of the abdomen the pain is located
the type of pain
the severity of the pain
how long the symptoms have been present
what makes the symptoms worse
what makes the symptoms better and
other associated symptoms such as flu-like symptoms, fever, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, sweats, chest pain, or shortness of breath

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File SYMP5171.RF2 VRS# 5171 Data Version 7.0