Abdominal cramps occur when the muscles in the abdomen or intestines contract involuntarily. These spasms can vary in intensity and duration..
In most cases, spasms are not detrimental to health, but they may indicate the presence of underlying conditions that require medical investigation.
Learn more about stomach cramps in this article. We will talk about the causes of spasms, prevention and available treatments.
The content of the article:Why do stomach cramps occur?
Each of the following conditions can lead to abdominal cramps.
1. Constipation
Cramps and spasms are common symptoms of constipation.
Abdominal cramps can have many different causes, including gas, muscle strain, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation.
Other symptoms include:
- infrequent bowel movements (usually less than three times a week);
- allocation during bowel emptying of small volumes of hard stools;
- bloating;
- bowel movements require effort.
2. Dehydration
Dehydration often causes an imbalance of electrolytes in the body, in particular sodium and potassium. Muscles need these nutrients to function properly, so if they are deficient, abdominal cramps can occur.
Other symptoms of dehydration may include:
- dark urine;
- dizziness;
- strong thirst;
- headache.
3. Gas
Too much gas in the abdomen can lead to cramping as the muscles in the intestines contract to get rid of the gas.
Excess gas can also lead to the following:
- bloating;
- feeling full;
- stomach ache.
4. Gastritis and gastroenteritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach, and gastroenteritis is characterized by inflammation of both the stomach and intestines. These two conditions usually result from infections.
Gastritis and gastroenteritis can cause the following symptoms:
- bloating;
- nausea;
- abdominal pain;
- vomiting;
- diarrhea (only with gastroenteritis).
5. Intestinal obstruction and gastroparesis
Digested food passes through the intestines of the body due to wave-like muscle contractions, which are called peristalsis. When peristalsis slows down or stops in any part of the intestine, intestinal obstruction occurs.
Intestinal obstruction can be caused by several conditions, including:
- infections;
- inflammation;
- lack of physical activity;
- operations;
- drug use.
Other symptoms of intestinal obstruction include:
- discomfort in the abdominal cavity;
- nausea;
- vomit.
Obstruction that affects the muscular apparatus of the stomach is called gastroparesis in medicine. This condition can also cause abdominal cramps, especially after eating.
6. Infectious colitis
Colitis is inflammation of the large intestine. There are several types of colitis. If the inflammation is caused by an infection, then we are talking about infectious colitis.
In addition to abdominal cramps, infectious colitis symptoms include:
- dehydration;
- diarrhea
- frequent bowel movements.
Infectious colitis can be caused by eating contaminated food or water that contains pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Giardia.
7. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term that summarizes several chronic diseases that are characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract. IBD affects millions of people around the planet.
The most common types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both of these conditions can cause cramps and other symptoms, including:
- constipation;
- diarrhea
- fatigue;
- fever
- the need for more frequent bowel movements;
- weight loss.
8. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder in which the digestive tract looks intact but causes symptoms.
This condition affects 10 to 15 percent of people, and this fact makes CPDS the most common functional disorder of the digestive system.
In addition to abdominal cramps, symptoms of CPTS include:
- abdominal pain;
- bloating;
- constipation;
- diarrhea;
9. Ischemic enteritis and colitis
Ischemic colitis is a condition in which insufficient blood supply causes inflammation of the colon. When this problem affects the small intestine, doctors diagnose ischemic enteritis.
Both diseases lead to abdominal cramps and other symptoms, including:
- diarrhea
- fever
- loss of appetite;
- nausea;
- vomiting.
10. Muscle strain
Too intense or too frequent work of the abdominal muscles often leads to cramps that occur in the abdomen. People who regularly do abs and squats are at high risk for these cramps.
Other symptoms of muscle strain include:
- pain that gets worse with movement
- muscle sensitivity.
Abdominal cramps during pregnancy
In pregnant women, Braxton-Hicks contractions may be the cause of abdominal cramps.
The changes that occur in the body during pregnancy can cause abdominal cramps. In most cases, they are not a serious problem. However, women who experience regular or painful cramps should talk to their doctor about it.
The following are conditions that can cause cramps during pregnancy.
Braxton Hicks contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions
also called false contractions. Such contractions usually disturb women in the third trimester of pregnancy, although sometimes they begin in the second.Braxton Hicks contractions are characterized by contraction and tension of the muscles of the uterus for a period of 30 seconds to 2 minutes before relaxing. Such abbreviations may be:
- infrequent;
- variable in intensity;
- more uncomfortable than painful.
Contractions that tend to get better over time rather than get worse are more likely to be Braxton-Hicks contractions, especially if they occur earlier than labor is expected.
Gas
Many pregnant women experience gases due to the increased content of the hormone in the body.
While progesterone is essential for a healthy pregnancy, it can also cause bowel muscles to relax, which slows down digestion and leads to gas.
Crick
The muscles of the abdomen and uterus stretch throughout pregnancy, adapting to the growth of the child. As the muscles stretch, they can cause spasms or bouts of pain.
Some level of muscle pain and cramping is tolerable during pregnancy, but severe pain or pain that is accompanied by bleeding and fever should be evaluated by a physician immediately.
Child movements
When the baby kicks the mother or just moves, it can also lead to a spasm-like feeling, especially in the second trimester. In the third trimester, such strokes are usually stronger and more pronounced, so they are more difficult to confuse with spasms.
Diagnosis of abdominal cramps
A doctor can diagnose the causes of abdominal cramps based on:
- physical examination;
- medical history;
- blood test;
- imaging techniques such as ultrasound or computed tomography.
At the beginning of the conversation, the doctor will ask the patient what symptoms he observes and whether these symptoms have triggers, that is, provoking factors.
The doctor may also ask the patient to keep a journal in which the following should be recorded:
- when spasms occur;
- food consumed on the days of the onset of spasms;
- physical activity carried out on the days of spasms.
When should you see a doctor with stomach cramps?
In many cases, abdominal cramps go away on their own and do not become a source of serious problems. However, severe and frequent spasms may indicate more serious conditions and should be evaluated by a doctor.
A person should go to the hospital if they experience the following symptoms:
- blood in the stool;
- chest pain;
- difficulty breathing;
- emotional problems associated with spasms;
- fever;
- severe pain;
- vomiting;
- skin that has a yellow tint;
- weight loss.
How to treat abdominal cramps?
Treatment for abdominal cramps depends on their cause.
Treating spasms at home
Healthy fluid balance and moderate consumption of sports drinks may be recommended to help relieve stomach cramps.
Many people manage to relieve spasms with home treatments. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before using some of the strategies below.
- Relaxation. People who experience cramping due to muscle overexertion can improve their condition by taking long periods of rest during which the abdominal muscles are not working.
- Warm. Applying heating pads or hot water bottles to the stomach sometimes relaxes the muscles and relieves cramps.
- Water balance. Drinking enough water will help avoid dehydration, which can both cause stomach cramps and exacerbate existing ones. Specialty sports drinks that replenish the body's electrolytes may also be helpful. However, they should be consumed in moderation due to their high sugar content.
- Massage. Gently massaging the abdominal muscles can improve blood flow and reduce spasms and cramps.
- Epsom salt baths. Warm Epsom salt baths are a popular home remedy for many spasms and cramps. Warm water relaxes muscles, and Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which helps relieve muscle cramps.
Medicines to relieve stomach cramps
The modern pharmaceutical market offers a wide variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications that can be used depending on the underlying condition causing abdominal cramps.
- Aminosalicylates and corticosteroids. These drugs are used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
- Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These drugs reduce the level of acid in the stomach, which can cause cramping caused by gastritis.
- Antibiotics. These drugs are prescribed to treat bacterial infections that cause gastritis and gastroenteritis.
- Antispasmodic. People with irritable bowel syndrome may experience relief when taking drugs from this group.
- Painkillers. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or paracetamol (Panadol) can help relieve pain.
Prevention of abdominal cramps
The following factors can help prevent stomach cramps.
- Water balance. Because dehydration leads to stomach cramps, people should drink enough water every day. Especially large volumes of liquids must be drunk in hot weather and during active physical activity.
- Moderate loads. It is not necessary to overload the muscles, as this can lead to spasms. A person who plays sports should give his body enough time to rest, and during training, monitor the water balance.
- Proper nutrition. You should not eat those foods that can cause digestive upset, abdominal cramps or other symptoms. First of all, we are talking about spicy and fatty foods, as well as alcohol. If necessary, you can make other changes to the diet. People with gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease may find that these changes help them relieve their symptoms. For example, by limiting your fiber intake, you can reduce gas formation. Your best bet is to talk to your doctor, who can tell you which foods to eat and which to avoid.
- Treatment of major diseases. Abdominal cramps that are caused by medical conditions such as CPTS and IBD may disappear or improve once these conditions are controlled with medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of the two.
Prospects for the treatment of abdominal cramps
Treatment prospects for abdominal cramps largely depend on the underlying cause. Spasms often resolve with minimal or no treatment. However, sometimes they may require closer medical attention.
To increase the chances of successful treatment, a person should be referred to a doctor promptly if the spasms recur, worsen, or are accompanied by symptoms such as bloody stools, fever, or vomiting.
A large number of predisposing factors, which are usually divided into physiological and pathological, can cause pain. Depending on what served as the source of the symptom, the clinical picture will be formed. Most often, patients complain of abdominal pain and diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and fever.
To find out the cause of the occurrence, patients need a physical examination and laboratory and instrumental examinations. The tactics of therapy will directly depend on the causes of the appearance.
Etiology
There is a wide range of predisposing factors for the development of abdominal cramps, they can be both common to everyone and will differ for men, women and children.
The main group of causes of abdominal cramps:
Cramps in the lower abdomen in women may be due to:
- the flow of menstruation;
- premenstrual syndrome;
- gynecological pathologies;
- adhesive process in the appendages;
- hormonal imbalance.
In addition, it is worth highlighting several factors that affect the appearance of such a symptom in female representatives only during the period of bearing a child. Thus, cramps in the lower abdomen during pregnancy occur against the background of:
- stretching of muscles, veins or ligaments in the abdomen, as well as in the uterus;
- an increase in the size of the uterus and fetus, which leads to a displacement of the internal organs and the appearance of a similar symptom;
It follows from this that such a symptom during pregnancy can be triggered by both completely natural causes and dangerous conditions. If spasms are accompanied by vaginal discharge and other symptoms, then you need to go to an obstetrician-gynecologist for help as soon as possible.
As for the male representatives, there are not so many specific reasons for the appearance of the main clinical manifestation. Cramps in the lower abdomen in men, in addition to the above sources, can cause inflammation of the prostate gland.
The expression of such an unpleasant symptom in children is not considered uncommon. In babies up to a year old, it is caused by the incomplete formation of the organs of the digestive system and is considered a completely normal sign. However, there are several other situations against which abdominal cramps appear in a child up to a year old:
- insufficient production of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary for the breakdown of breast milk;
- dysbacteriosis, formed due to the fact that the expectant mother during pregnancy took a large amount of antibacterial agents;
- pyloric stenosis.
In children of the older age group, the stomach hurts for the following reasons:
- pancreatic colic;
- appendicitis;
- helminthic invasion;
- gastritis;
- active physical activity that does not correspond to the age category of the child;
- allergic reaction to food;
- upset stool or diarrhea;
- the course of rotavirus infection;
- urinary tract infection;
- prolonged exposure to stressful situations or nervous strain.
The most rare causes of abdominal cramps are:
Classification
Spasms of the abdominal muscles are usually divided into:
- tonic - characterized by prolonged muscle tension;
- clonic - jerky spasms. They differ from the previous variety in that muscle contractions alternate with smooth muscle relaxation.
Symptoms
In each person, abdominal muscle cramps will be accompanied by the manifestation of individual clinical signs. The first symptom, against which other symptoms will develop, is pain. It can be either periodic or permanent. The degree of intensity varies from dull and aching to sharp and cutting. In some cases, the pain can be so pronounced that the person is forced to take an uncomfortable position, often knee-elbow. Sometimes the opposite happens - it is very difficult to stay in one place, and to reduce pain, you need to move more.
In addition, severe abdominal cramps can be supplemented by the following symptoms:
- nausea, which often leads to vomiting. Often in the vomit there are blood impurities;
- difficult breathing;
- vaginal bleeding;
- rise in temperature;
- irradiation of pain sensations on the entire surface of the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity, in the perineum and scrotum, on the chest, neck and shoulder;
- a change in the shade of feces - they will become black;
- violation of the process of defecation - abdominal cramps and diarrhea are much more common than constipation;
- release of a large amount of cold sticky sweat;
- urinary retention.
Diagnostics
If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, you should seek qualified help as soon as possible. There are several doctors who can identify the causes of the appearance of the main clinical sign, among them:
The establishment of the etiological factor requires an integrated approach and is based on the data of laboratory and instrumental examinations. But before their appointment, the doctor must independently carry out several manipulations:
- to study the medical history and anamnesis of the patient's life - this will help to identify one or another predisposing factor;
- perform a thorough physical examination, which must necessarily include palpation of the abdomen. During this procedure, the clinician pays attention to the patient's response. Women need a gynecological examination and a pregnancy test;
- conduct a detailed survey aimed at obtaining a complete picture of the course of abdominal cramps. To do this, it is necessary to report the presence and the first time of onset of symptoms.
Among laboratory tests, the following have the greatest diagnostic value:
- general and biochemical analysis of blood - will show a change in its composition characteristic of the course of the inflammatory process or other ailments;
- general analysis of urine - to control the functioning of the urinary system;
- microscopic examination of feces - will indicate the presence of eggs of worms or particles of other pathogens.
The basis of diagnostics is instrumental examinations of the patient, including:
- FEGDS - endoscopic procedure for evaluating the internal surface of the digestive tract;
- Ultrasound of the peritoneum;
- radiography with or without contrast agent;
These are just the main diagnostic measures that are necessary to establish the causes of abdominal cramps. Each patient is individually assigned additional tests and examinations.
Treatment
The tactics of eliminating such a symptom directly depends on the cause that caused the appearance of spasms.
The general treatment regimen includes:
- taking painkillers aimed at stopping pain;
- intravenous infusion of medicinal solutions - to restore fluid lost due to profuse vomiting and diarrhea;
- physiotherapy procedures;
- the use of antiemetic and antibacterial agents;
- compliance with a sparing diet;
- the use of alternative medicine prescriptions - only after the approval of the attending physician.
If a person is disturbed by severe abdominal cramps, then, first of all, it is necessary to completely refuse to eat any food for several days - this is called therapeutic fasting. Often it lasts no more than three days, during which you can drink water without gas or green tea without sugar.
Diet therapy involves a complete rejection of:
- fatty and spicy foods;
- canned food and smoked meats;
- marinades and pickles;
- fresh bread and muffins;
- confectionery and sweets;
- spices;
- mayonnaise and hot sauces;
- carbonated drinks and alcohol;
- strong coffee, black tea and cocoa.
Such a dietary restriction must be observed for at least three months, at which time it is allowed to eat:
- lean meats and fish;
- low-fat dairy products;
- vegetables and fruits after they have undergone heat treatment;
- vegetarian and dairy first courses;
- steam omelets and soft-boiled eggs;
- compotes and kissels.
A complete list of allowed and prohibited foods, an approximate menu and recommendations for cooking is provided only by the attending physician.
Good results can be achieved by folk methods that involve the use of:
- cumin seeds;
- lemon juice;
- mint and ginger;
- cardamom and coriander;
- fennel seeds;
- dandelion roots and leaves.
The implementation of surgical intervention to eliminate the source of such a symptom is decided on an individual basis, but is never performed in cases of abdominal cramps during pregnancy.
Prevention
So that a person does not have problems with abdominal cramps, you need to follow the general rules, including:
- adherence to dietary recommendations;
- the implementation of a good rest;
- avoidance of stressful situations and physical overwork;
- walking, especially after meals;
- taking medications only as prescribed by the clinician;
- drinking large amounts of fluid per day;
- control over regular bowel movements;
- wearing a special bandage during pregnancy;
- undergoing a complete medical examination several times a year.
Timely detection of abdominal cramps, as well as complete diagnosis and complex treatment increase the likelihood of a favorable prognosis - the complete elimination of the etiological factor and symptoms.
"Cramps in the abdomen" is observed in diseases:
Intestinal dysbacteriosis in children is a pathological process in which there is a violation of the composition of the intestinal microflora. The total number of opportunistic microorganisms increases and, at the same time, beneficial bacteria gradually die. Imbalance provokes the appearance of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, a decrease in the reactivity of the body, the progression of anemia, as well as other serious pathological conditions. In the medical literature, this disease is also referred to as intestinal dysbiosis.
Parametritis is an inflammatory process of periuterine tissue, in which venous and lymphatic vessels are localized in large numbers. In most cases, such a disease develops against the background of a complicated abortion or labor activity, the establishment of intrauterine devices with damage to the tissues of the uterus. Any surgical intervention only provokes the spread and development of infection.
Enterovirus infection is a group of acute infectious diseases that affect not only adults but also children. A characteristic feature of this disorder is that enteroviruses initially multiply in the gastrointestinal tract, but do not cause the expression of symptoms of intestinal diseases. The second place of localization of bacteria reproduction is the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs. Bacteria often spread and affect the skin, heart, spinal cord, or brain. The activity of viruses can cause both a severe deterioration in the health of the child, and cause minor ailments. The incubation period ranges from two to thirty days, but often does not exceed a week. Children or young people are often affected.
Erosion of the stomach is a violation of the integrity of the mucous membrane of this organ. A characteristic feature is that its deeper tissues do not undergo a pathogenic process, and after healing, erosion does not leave any traces. Such a disease in combination with erosive damage to the duodenum occurs in fifteen percent of all recorded diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
With the help of exercise and abstinence, most people can do without medicine.
Body muscle cramps
This article will focus on this type of cramps, like muscle cramps. The most common of muscle cramps are cramps in the calf muscles - calves. An entire article is devoted to them.
Causes of muscle cramps
Any convulsive condition is characterized by involuntary, erratic contractions of the muscles of the body or individual muscle groups. Generalized muscle cramps occur with the following diseases:
- Epilepsy
- Encephalitis of various etiologies
- Meningitis
- Injuries
- Tumors
- Eclampsia of pregnant women
- With general infections and intoxications occurring with fever. Such convulsions are often observed in childhood.
Local convulsions are observed:
- With overstrain of individual muscle groups. The reason for their occurrence is often repeated the same fast movements. Local cramps, cramps in the muscles of the arms and legs, can occur in athletes, musicians, etc. Even if this condition quickly disappears on its own, the muscle hurts after the cramps for a long time, sometimes for several hours.
- hypothermia
- Elderly age
- Abuse of coffee and cigarettes
So, why the muscles cramp, figured out, let's talk in more detail about some types of convulsive contractions.
Leg muscle cramps
The most common type of cramp that many people experience is leg cramps associated with overexertion, wearing uncomfortable high-heeled shoes, and hypothermia. Medical care for cramps in the calf muscles caused by the listed reasons is not required. It is enough to eliminate the factors that provoked them. If there are frequent nocturnal cramps of the calf muscles, it is necessary to undergo a medical examination. The doctor will determine exactly why there are cramps in the calf muscles, and prescribe adequate treatment. If painful muscle contractions are caused by a deficiency in the blood of potassium, magnesium, calcium, you will be prescribed drugs that make up for this deficiency. The most common drugs for the treatment of calf muscle cramps are:
- Asparkam
- Potassium Orotate
- Panangin
- Calcium, magnesium, vitamin D preparations
It should be remembered that taking medications is possible only after they are prescribed by a doctor! If you take them correctly and follow additional medical recommendations on diet and nutrition, the treatment of leg muscle cramps will quickly give positive results. It should be noted that spasms of the calf muscles are not often treated with drugs - usually it is enough to eliminate external causes.
Other seizures
Back muscle cramps
Sometimes, with an awkward turn of the body or a long stay in one position (sitting at a computer), cramps of the back muscles occur. Less commonly, they can be caused by hypothermia, a large load on the spine. First aid for such cramps is warming procedures. A heating pad or any warming ointment is well suited for this.
Abdominal muscle cramps
Abdominal cramps can occur:
- In pregnant women
- For various diseases of the abdominal cavity
- With intestinal colic
- With tumor processes localized in the abdominal cavity
- In women during the menstrual period
They are quite rare, and each individual case requires a detailed diagnosis.
Thigh muscle cramp
Cramps the thigh muscles usually for the same reason as the calf muscles. Sometimes these two types of convulsions are combined, delivering unbearable pain to a person. Additional causes of hip cramps include a violation of the innervation of the femoral muscles. This condition can be caused by various diseases of the spine.
Treatment of muscle cramps
Like any other, drug treatment of muscle spasms of the body is prescribed only by a doctor! The correct implementation of medical recommendations, the organization of the correct regimen and the correction of the diet depend on you. Medicines for muscle cramps are prescribed for long courses if they are caused by a serious illness, such as epilepsy, meningitis. For prophylactic purposes, drugs for muscle cramps can be prescribed to children with hyperthermic convulsive syndrome or children with congenital encephalopathy. But no matter what convulsions you encounter, remember that a specialist consultation is necessary, because a convulsive attack can be the first symptom of a formidable disease.
How to get rid of abdominal cramps, their causes and treatment
Abdominal cramps are among the most common symptoms. This symptom is found in many people, while it does not depend on gender, occupation or age. Most often, spasm indicates the development of pathological in the body. But to be sure of this, you need to seek help from a doctor.
Causes of abdominal cramps
When the abdominal muscles reduce, a person cannot fully perform his work. The functionality of all systems deteriorates sharply, since the unpleasant process affects directly the nerve endings. Why does the stomach cramp?
The reasons are as follows:
- manifestation of inflammation in the appendix;
- development of obstruction in the digestive tract;
- the appearance of symptoms of renal colic;
- the formation or exacerbation of adhesions;
- infringement of a hernia;
- blockage of the biliary tract;
- diseases of the gallbladder or liver;
- acute poisoning of the body;
- irrational eating and poor chewing of food;
- irritable bowel syndrome;
- chronic pancreatitis;
- dysbacteriosis of the intestinal tract;
- colitis;
- chronic constipation;
- violation of fat metabolism;
- diabetes;
- peptic ulcer of the stomach and intestines;
- cholecystitis of acute or chronic type;
- problems with the urinary system.
When abdominal cramps appear, the causes in women may be hidden in the following:
- the flow of menstruation;
- the formation of the syndrome before menstruation;
- pathological processes of the gynecological type;
- adhesive process in the area of the appendages;
- hormonal imbalance.
A woman's stomach can also hurt while carrying a baby. Then the reasons are:
- stretching of muscle structures, veins or ligamentous apparatus in the abdomen and uterine cavity;
- an increase in the size of the uterine cavity and fetus. This leads to displacement of internal organs;
- false contractions. Usually this phenomenon occurs after 28 weeks. Thus, the body trains before the upcoming birth process;
- the introduction of the egg into the walls of the uterine cavity. Then the spasm occurs in the first weeks of pregnancy;
- cervical disease;
- exfoliation of the placenta;
- development of an ectopic pregnancy;
- premature labor activity;
- miscarriage or threatened miscarriage.
Pain of a spasmodic nature is often found in babies under one year old. The development of an adverse symptom is associated with:
- with insufficient production of an enzyme in the form of lactase, which is responsible for the breakdown of breast milk;
- intestinal dysbiosis. It occurs against the background of the fact that a woman at the stage of gestation used antibacterial agents;
- pylostenosis.
Why does the stomach hurt with cramps in older children? The causes of the pathological process may be hidden:
If abdominal cramps are observed, the causes in men may be hidden:
- in the development of prostatitis;
- urethritis;
- liver disease;
- heart attack;
- pneumonia;
- groin injuries;
- shingles.
If there are pains, cramps in the abdomen, you need to urgently consult a specialist. If symptoms appear in children and pregnant women, an ambulance should be called urgently and the patient should be hospitalized.
Associated symptoms
When the stomach cramps, other symptoms may also appear. One of the main symptoms is pain. It can occur both constantly and periodically. The intensity of painful sensations can also be different: aching, dull, sharp, cutting, stabbing. In some situations, the pain is so pronounced and pronounced that you have to take an uncomfortable position. In others, on the contrary, when tilted, it begins to reduce the muscle frame even more. And to remove it, you have to actively move.
In addition to pain, the patient complains of:
- for nausea and vomiting. Often in the vomit there are blood impurities;
- difficulty breathing;
- bleeding from the vagina;
- increase in temperature values;
- painful sensations that can radiate to the abdominal region, perineum, groin, chest, neck and shoulder;
- discoloration of feces. They may turn black;
- violation of the process of emptying the intestinal tract. Abdominal cramps and diarrhea are much more common than constipation;
- the release of a large amount of cold and sticky sweat;
- urinary retention and cramps.
Based on the symptoms, a preliminary diagnosis can be made.
Methods for diagnosing abdominal cramps
If the stomach or muscles in the groin or abdominal region are cramping, you need to seek help from a specialist. There are several specialists who can help determine the cause of the pain. This group includes therapists, neurologists, gastroenterologists, gynecologists.
To establish the cause of pathological pain, it is necessary to undergo an examination.
It is as follows:
- study of the patient's history;
- physical examination, palpation of the abdomen;
- identification of patient complaints and associated symptoms;
- general and biochemical blood test;
- passing urine for analysis;
- the study of feces under a microscope;
- fibrogastroduodenoscopy;
- ultrasound diagnostics of the abdominal organs;
- x-ray examination using contrast fluid;
- electrocardiography.
These activities are mandatory. Additional diagnostic methods may be prescribed to clarify the diagnosis.
Treatment of abdominal cramps
What to do for women and men who are worried about severe abdominal cramps? There are several measures that will help temporarily eliminate or alleviate the symptom.
- breathe evenly, while trying to distract from the painful sensations. Relax completely. This technique will help remove pain and spasms of a mild nature;
- sit in a reclining chair. Think of something pleasant;
- focus on your breath. Breathe shallowly but quickly. Continue manipulation until you feel significant relief;
- don't worry about spasms. Concentrate on things that do not upset you, but, on the contrary, cheer you up;
- take a rest. Rest is the best medicine.
If it reduces the abdominal muscles in men and women further, then you need to call an ambulance. The doctor will look at the patient and make a preliminary diagnosis.
Medical therapy includes:
- the use of painkillers that relieve pain;
- taking a course of therapeutic massage;
- administering injections through a vein. This will restore the balance of fluid that has been lost due to repeated vomiting and diarrhea;
- implementation of physiotherapy procedures;
- taking antiemetic drugs and antibiotics;
- following a strict diet.
If the patient is concerned about cramps and spasm in the abdomen, then the consumption of any food should be excluded. It will take a day or two for the pain to go away.
Diet for spasms involves exclusion from the diet:
- fatty and spicy foods;
- canned and smoked meats;
- marinades and pickles;
- fresh pastries and bread;
- confectionery and sweets;
- spices and spices;
- mayonnaise and various sauces;
- carbonated and alcoholic drinks;
- strong coffee, tea and cocoa.
- lean meats and fish;
- low-fat dairy products;
- vegetable and fruit dishes that have undergone heat treatment;
- vegetarian dishes;
- steam omelets and soft-boiled eggs;
- compotes and jelly.
What to do and eat, only the doctor will tell based on the cause of the development of spasms.
As an additional therapy, alternative methods can be used. The most popular recipes include:
- infusions of cumin;
- drinking lemon juice;
- decoctions of mint and ginger;
- fennel infusion.
You can prevent the occurrence of spasms if you follow all the recommendations on nutrition, lead an active lifestyle and give up addictions. But if the discomfort is still bothering, then there is no need to delay the visit to the doctor. Only a doctor can identify the cause and prescribe adequate treatment.
Spasms of the abdomen, intestines, muscles and ligaments of internal organs. Visceral massage.
Massage of the internal organs, Old Slavonic massage, visceral chiropractic - these are the designations of one of the most mysterious, unique and less common phenomena in manual massage practice today, namely, the impact on the internal organs through the stomach.
Any internal organ is interconnected with a specific part of the spine. Violations in the work of one lead to illness in the other and vice versa.
The internal organs are attached and connected by muscles and ligaments, which, just like muscles and ligaments in other parts of the body, can stretch, tighten, spasm, become a scar, ossify as a result of excessive and inadequate loads, sudden movements, injuries, intoxications. Stretching, spasmodic muscles and ligaments displace the held internal organs, nearby vessels and nerves. Pain appears, blood circulation and lymph flow are disturbed. This leads to insufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients, disruption of metabolic processes, development of pathogenic microflora in all involved tissues and organs.
Neck pain can be the result of respiratory disorders. Pain in the thoracic spine is the result of diseases of the heart, lungs, and abdominal organs. Pain in the lower back and sacrum - a consequence of prostatitis, inflammation, ulcers and tumors of the intestines, kidneys, vascular and gynecological diseases.
Chronic pain in the pelvis and lower abdomen in women without a specific focus and found surgical and gynecological causes is a clear result of spasms of muscles and ligaments of internal organs.
In case of violation of the outflow of bile (and today this is a common phenomenon), the chemical balance in the body and metabolism are disturbed, which leads to intoxication. As a result - a change in pressure, increased sweating, increased heart rate, pain in the head, imbalance.
Moreover, disturbances in the work of internal organs cause pain, numbness, tingling in various, even the most distant and seemingly unrelated parts of the back.
Due to unnecessary delicacy, one of the most common violations of the work of internal organs, constipation, is hushed up and not taken seriously. As a result of constipation, nothing more than poisoning, intoxication of the body occurs - the poison is stored in the body. The situation is serious to the point of being problematic.
Constipation is a violation of the formation of a lump of undigested food residues, its normal movement in the intestines and excretion from the body.
The lump should be elongated, homogeneous structure without seals and flakes. There is no average withdrawal rate. Each organism has individual characteristics. Therefore, defecation can be once a day, and once every two days, and several times a day. At the same time, a prerequisite and indicator of the normality of this process is the absence of any discomfort before removal, during and after. However, if the delay occurs for more than two days, then it is worth considering the adoption of auxiliary measures.
First of all, you need to make sure that there are no changes in the structure of tissues, various congenital anomalies, neoplasms that can lead to constipation.
Widespread and almost universal ulcers, dyskinesia, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, gastritis, colitis, stones lead to disturbances in the work of the stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder. As a result, inadequate digestion, and this is both inadequate assimilation of food, and inadequate processing of the food bolus for disposal. (Bile, for example, stimulates intestinal motility. If bile flow is disturbed, then peristalsis becomes difficult.) But the organs work at the same time, work. Only in emergency mode, with an increased load, since their health has decreased. And this load occurs from day to day, for a long time and regularly. And the tissues of the organs are tense, contracted, spasmodic from the load.
This is intestinal spasm, which is the cause of about 90% of all cases of constipation. It simply does not allow food boluses to pass.
Another significant cause of spasms of internal organs and constipation is an unstable psyche, neuroses, anxiety, fear, uncertainty, suspiciousness, and nervous stress. In this case, the complexity of the solution is that the problem situation gives rise to fear, and it contributes to the development of the disease. It comes to the point that even if the obvious causes of the disease are eliminated, then the vicious circle of neurosis-constipation-neurosis simply does not make it possible to recover. Women with their heightened emotionality are more subject to this. They have common causes of violations of the position of the internal organs, their spasms and constipation are also childbirth, postpartum trauma, adhesions, abortion.
Temporary (2-3 days) violations of the regularity of defecation are possible as a result of nervous shocks, malnutrition, changes in the place of stay, colds. In this case, constipation goes away when the usual life activity returns to normal.
Diets. Very important. An unbalanced diet turns the intestines into a garbage dump with obstruction. Dried figs, dried apricots, prunes, fresh kiwi are cleaned very well.
Laxatives. Castor oil, pumpkin seed oil. We accept them - there is a result. We do not accept - everything starts anew.
Drugs that stimulate intestinal motility. Lactulose, Senadexin. Give temporary effectiveness. The body gets used to them, and the dose must be increased.
Hydrocolonotherapy. In chronic cases, they give only a temporary result.
Special physical gymnastics aimed at relaxing the internal organs. Very important and effective.
Pharmaceuticals. The inflammation of the organ is removed, relief occurs. But the problem situation is not solved because the cause is not eliminated.
Impact on the internal organs with the hands through the stomach.
The human body is a closed interconnected system. And it requires a comprehensive examination, the task of which is to detect a spasm and to reveal the causal relationship of the organs and tissues involved in the disease. Head, neck, spine, back, abdomen, sacrum, limbs - spasms can be everywhere.
The palm is applied to the required area on the abdomen. Fingers, slowly advancing and penetrating a little deeper, feel the internal tissues. Painful seals felt during these influences are an indicator of ill health. To eliminate his fingers, they linger on the painful place with further pressure on it for 2-3 minutes. Such approaches alternate with short-term cessation of exposures. On one site, 3-5 alternations are made. If the reason is really in spasms, then the pain becomes less after a few minutes. Procedures can be performed every day, or several times a week. After the first two procedures, as a rule, the work of problem areas and organs improves, these improvements are simply felt.
This is the essence of execution. Of course, there are subtleties, but the simplicity of the technique is accessible for development and effective in performance.
With neoplasms in the internal organs, any impact on the stomach is prohibited.
With the help of mechanical influences of the hands on the internal organs, spasms of the muscles and ligaments of the internal organs are removed through the stomach; the natural position of the internal organs and their full functionality are restored; blood circulation, lymph flow and the passage of nerve impulses in the abdomen, spine, head, thoracic region, limbs are restored; the relationship of internal organs with the spine is restored; the pain goes away; stagnation and intoxication are destroyed; the outflow of bile is restored; constipation goes away. Not only spasmodic tissues relax, but the person himself. There is a kind of energy shake-up of the whole organism, the forces for recovery are stimulated.
Reduces abdominal muscles: causes and ways to eliminate spasms
Our muscles are in constant tension, their contraction ensures the functioning of the organs. But sometimes they are reduced involuntarily, without special need. There are situations when suddenly reduces the abdominal muscles. This phenomenon is called spasm. Sometimes it delivers not only discomfort, but also severe pain. These symptoms cannot be ignored, because they may indicate diseases of the internal organs. What causes muscle contractions?
There are many reasons for spasms. It is important to determine why the stomach reduces in a particular case, only then can we talk about treatment. Often, muscle spasm can be provoked by:
- frequent stress. Fright is one of the common causes of abdominal cramps;
- improper nutrition. The abundance of sweets, fatty foods in the diet can lead to gallbladder dysfunction;
- Unhealthy Lifestyle. Frequent consumption of alcohol in large doses, smoking lead to muscle spasms;
- appendicitis. In this case, the stomach reduces due to the contraction of the process of the caecum - the appendix;
- diseases of the internal organs. Renal or hepatic colic, diseases of the pancreas and stomach lead to convulsions;
- the presence of blood clots in the blood vessels;
- the use of certain hormonal drugs. For example, contraceptives.
All of these factors can cause abdominal cramps. Pain is always a symptom of this phenomenon. It can have a different character: be dull or sharp, cramping or prolonged. Usually the pain is localized in the navel. It is worth a little pressure on it, and the pain becomes less noticeable. Sometimes there are additional symptoms: vomiting, nausea, dizziness, flatulence, weakness.
What to do if the abdominal muscles are cramped? At such moments, in order for relief to come, you need to take the most comfortable position: bend over or lie on your stomach. There are several recommendations on how to deal with such situations. For example:
- try to relax as much as possible and take a few deep breaths and exhalations;
- massage the area where the spasm is observed with light movements;
- take antispasmodics. Papaverine, spazmalgon, baralgin have proven themselves well. But this is only if the spasm is not a symptom of a serious illness;
- thermal procedures. You can apply a hot water bottle to the area with pain or take a warm bath. But! In no case should this be done with appendicitis.
To avoid abdominal cramps in the future, you need to review your diet, monitor timely bowel movements, drink more fluids (but avoid coffee and carbonated drinks). Sometimes it makes sense to visit a reflexologist.
Take care of your health, and stomach cramps will stop tormenting you.
A spasm is a convulsive contraction of the muscles, genitals, esophagus, or other organs.
At the time of spasm, there is a temporary narrowing of the lumen.
Spasmodic pain can not only lead to terrible pain, but also signal you about the presence of many diseases.
Abdominal cramps - causes
Abdominal cramps can annoy anyone, regardless of the age and gender of the patient. The main reason for its appearance is considered to be muscle contraction in the abdominal region. A painful cramp can cause a sensation of pain. However, they can also occur for other reasons.
A qualified specialist can diagnose abdominal cramps after a complete medical examination. Therefore, you do not need to engage in self-diagnosis, when the first symptoms appear, consult a doctor. After all, many causes that cause pain can carry a direct threat to human life:
1. The occurrence of spastic pain due to improper functioning of the digestive organs. This is affected by malnutrition, abuse of bad habits, frequent stress and overwork.
2. Diseases of internal organs.
3. Painful cider from spasm can cause renal colic.
Spasms often affect the blood vessels that are located in the abdominal cavity. Most people have experienced spastic pain at the time of an appendicitis attack.
Many women of reproductive age experience abdominal cramps every month at the start of their menstrual cycle. But this phenomenon is easily explained, because there is a temporary change in the hormonal background, this contributes to muscle contraction in the uterus. Moreover, even the muscles of other organs located nearby are reduced.
Currently, irritable bowel syndrome is characteristic. The disease affects abdominal cramps, people at a young age. This is due to the fact that the younger generation is subject to frequent stressful situations. In addition to abdominal cramps, they feel sweating, tachycardia, severe headache.
Since each person is individual, the causes of abdominal cramps are different for everyone. To identify them, as mentioned above, only an experienced doctor can.
Abdominal cramps - diagnosis of possible diseases
Abdominal cramps can be the result of serious diseases that require the immediate intervention of specialists.
A lot of factors can provoke the appearance of spasms:
Severe inflammation of the appendix;
Obstruction in the intestines;
Colic in the kidneys;
Each of these diseases requires mandatory intervention.
Abdominal cramps during pregnancy should be considered separately. Until the third trimester, spasms are a sign that it can break at any time.
The danger lies in the fact that blood or liquid begins to stand out from the vagina - this means that the amniotic fluid is leaking. All women with these symptoms should be hospitalized.
But sometimes, abdominal cramps during pregnancy do not indicate the likelihood of premature birth. In this condition, painful sensations may appear during urination, this indicates cystitis, pyenolephritis.
In any case, if such spasms occur, you need to contact a specialist in order to be sure that nothing threatens the baby and mother.
The appearance of severe spasms can provoke a problem with the gallbladder and liver. There is a violation of the excretion of bile through the bile ducts. As a result of this, not only the muscles in them spasm, but also all the muscles in the surrounding tissues.
Similar symptoms may appear with urolithiasis, only spasms in this case will provoke the movement of stones along the ureter. The patient feels pain not only in the abdomen, they are given to the diaphragm, perineum, rectum.
Sufficiently strong spasms in the body cause intestinal colic. It occurs with malnutrition, intoxication of the body, diabetes.
The clinical manifestation of colic in the intestine is somewhat reminiscent of an acute condition that requires immediate surgical intervention. But there are still some differences:
1. Pain occurs periodically.
2. There are no protrusions in the form of a tumor.
3. If you press on the stomach, the pain will stop.
4. The abdomen is soft enough, the front wall is not tense.
Often intestinal colic occurs with diarrhea or constipation.
Severe cramps in the lower abdomen occur in women a few days before the onset of the menstrual cycle. Many do not pay attention to this, believing that such a state is quite natural. It also happens. But you should still be examined for severe pain. Since this may indicate chronic gynecological diseases, or the occurrence of a neoplasm. Once again, it should be noted that for some, pain is a simple reaction of the body to menstruation. The exact answer can only be given by specialists, after examination.
The presence of abdominal cramps in men may indicate the development of inflammation in the prostate gland.
Regardless of the etiology, spasms are always quite painful. The patient sometimes cannot find a place for himself, the only relief is a state of rest. With renal colic, everything is a little different - the patient cannot lie down, he constantly walks.
Cramps in the abdomen can appear with severe stress and neurogenic failures. Often they can be accompanied by diarrhea. In the people, such a disease got its name "bear disease".
If spastic pains constantly appear in the abdomen, it is imperative to find out the cause of their appearance. Treatment should be aimed at eliminating the underlying disease.
If there is a suspicion of the presence of an acute inflammatory process of the internal organs, you should not take drugs until the diagnosis is fully established.
Methods of treatment
With a sharp onset of pain, the patient cannot even straighten up, and his first question is what to do with a spasm in the stomach. People enter their question into a search engine, get a lot of answers to it, basically all of them are related to the methods of traditional medicine. Many will put them into practice, as there is no desire to go to the doctor and stand in line before an appointment.
In many cases, the methods really pass, and the person remembers them a few years later, while in the oncologist's office. In other cases, the pain becomes unbearable. You can't do without a visit to the doctor. But what does all this have to do with it?
In fact, spasm is just a symptom that appears with various diseases. Spasms always have a different character of severity and localization.
You do not need to look for ways to eliminate spasm if, along with pain, you feel at least one of the following symptoms:
The appearance of yellow color on the skin;
Useful advice! If you experience severe pain, call an ambulance. If the spasm was caused by a strong blow, it is possible that the spleen has ruptured.
In what cases can you postpone a consultation with a specialist:
1. If the pain began to appear after recent stress. This is especially true for children who are prone to frequent experiences, stomach cramps in this case, most likely suspicious. If such a condition was only once and does not occur again, you can postpone a visit to the doctor.
2. The development of pain is provoked by errors in the diet. For example, you drank coffee on an empty stomach, or ate a lot of food before going to bed.
3. If the pain did not last long, and there were no accompanying symptoms.
Actions that cannot be harmed
So, you are convinced that no dangerous symptoms were observed, and you can postpone the visit to the doctor for some time. But why for some? It is possible that stomach cancer manifested itself as spasmodic pain. The tissue has been destroyed to a certain depth, causing spasms, but now the disease will be asymptomatic. Therefore, it is necessary to exclude organic pathology, in which the structure of the organ is destroyed.
Your next steps
1. Count your pulse, it should not exceed one hundred beats per minute at the time of pain. Measure your blood pressure, normally it should be 100/60. Also measure body temperature, up to 37.3 is normal. If any of the parameters do not match, and are much higher than the norm, or vice versa are underestimated, call an ambulance as soon as possible.
2. If everything is normal, you can lie down on the sofa or bed and apply a warm heating pad to your stomach.
4. You can also take a pill that your gastroenterologist prescribed for you.
Folk remedies
These recipes can be used for any cause of spasm:
1. Take 2 teaspoons of mint and pour one cup of boiling water over it. Infuse the remedy for 30 minutes. Then dilute it in a 1:1 ratio with water and drink once a day instead of tea.
2. Take 2 tablespoons: nettle, St. John's wort, meadowsweet. Place them in a bowl and pour 0.5 liters. boiling water. Infuse for an hour, then drink one glass at once. The rest, take during the day. If the body does not accept such a tincture, discard it.
Doctor's actions
When you visit a doctor, he will examine you, ask appropriate questions, and gently feel your stomach. It is possible that additional research will be carried out - laboratory and instrumental. Based on the results obtained, an individual treatment will be selected.
The only thing that is allowed to be taken on its own, before a visit to the doctor, is painkillers. Since the pain is of a strong nature, and it is simply impossible to endure it.
Prevention
As a preventive measure, a number of sequential actions can be carried out. They will not only help reduce the occurrence of spasms, but also relieve pain.
Abdominal spasm can be relieved by applying pressure to the center of pain. Blood circulation will increase, and the muscles will thus relax.
If spasms occur frequently, but are not accompanied by severe pain, massage is recommended. Moreover, it is better to carry it out after taking a bath. It, just like pressure, improves blood circulation and relaxes muscles.
Quite often, a spasm takes the patient by surprise, there are no hospitals or pharmacies nearby. In this case, you need to try to relax and sharply tighten your muscles, do this up to 10 times. Due to this, lactic acid is released and relaxes the muscle tissue. Spasms often appear in the cold season. That is why the sore spot needs to be rubbed with massage or sesame oil.
It is good to drink warm milk. It reduces acidity in the stomach.
You can relieve abdominal cramps on your own, but it is better to constantly follow all preventive measures: give up bad habits, do not be nervous, temper yourself, and do physical exercises.
There is no need to postpone a visit to the doctor. In order for your body to be healthy, you need to monitor it, as well as treat the diseases that have arisen in time.
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Portal Editor-in-Chief: Ekaterina Danilova
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Reduces abdominal muscles: causes and ways to eliminate spasms
Our muscles are in constant tension, their contraction ensures the functioning of the organs. But sometimes they are reduced involuntarily, without special need. There are situations when suddenly reduces the abdominal muscles. This phenomenon is called spasm. Sometimes it delivers not only discomfort, but also severe pain. These symptoms cannot be ignored, because they may indicate diseases of the internal organs. What causes muscle contractions?
There are many reasons for spasms. It is important to determine why the stomach reduces in a particular case, only then can we talk about treatment. Often, muscle spasm can be provoked by:
- frequent stress. Fright is one of the common causes of abdominal cramps;
- improper nutrition. The abundance of sweets, fatty foods in the diet can lead to gallbladder dysfunction;
- Unhealthy Lifestyle. Frequent consumption of alcohol in large doses, smoking lead to muscle spasms;
- appendicitis. In this case, the stomach reduces due to the contraction of the process of the caecum - the appendix;
- diseases of the internal organs. Renal or hepatic colic, diseases of the pancreas and stomach lead to convulsions;
- the presence of blood clots in the blood vessels;
- the use of certain hormonal drugs. For example, contraceptives.
All of these factors can cause abdominal cramps. Pain is always a symptom of this phenomenon. It can have a different character: be dull or sharp, cramping or prolonged. Usually the pain is localized in the navel. It is worth a little pressure on it, and the pain becomes less noticeable. Sometimes there are additional symptoms: vomiting, nausea, dizziness, flatulence, weakness.
What to do if the abdominal muscles are cramped? At such moments, in order for relief to come, you need to take the most comfortable position: bend over or lie on your stomach. There are several recommendations on how to deal with such situations. For example:
- try to relax as much as possible and take a few deep breaths and exhalations;
- massage the area where the spasm is observed with light movements;
- take antispasmodics. Papaverine, spazmalgon, baralgin have proven themselves well. But this is only if the spasm is not a symptom of a serious illness;
- thermal procedures. You can apply a hot water bottle to the area with pain or take a warm bath. But! In no case should this be done with appendicitis.
To avoid abdominal cramps in the future, you need to review your diet, monitor timely bowel movements, drink more fluids (but avoid coffee and carbonated drinks). Sometimes it makes sense to visit a reflexologist.
Take care of your health, and stomach cramps will stop tormenting you.
Cramps in the abdomen
Cramping in the abdomen is a fairly common symptom that occurs in all people, regardless of gender and age category. In most cases, such a sign indicates the course of a pathological process in the body, some of them require immediate medical intervention.
A large number of predisposing factors, which are usually divided into physiological and pathological, can cause pain. Depending on what served as the source of the symptom, the clinical picture will be formed. Most often, patients complain of abdominal pain and diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and fever.
To find out the cause of the occurrence, patients need a physical examination and laboratory and instrumental examinations. The tactics of therapy will directly depend on the causes of the appearance.
Etiology
There is a wide range of predisposing factors for the development of abdominal cramps, they can be both common to everyone and will differ for men, women and children.
The main group of causes of abdominal cramps:
Cramps in the lower abdomen in women may be due to:
- the flow of menstruation;
- premenstrual syndrome;
- gynecological pathologies;
- adhesive process in the appendages;
- hormonal imbalance.
In addition, it is worth highlighting several factors that affect the appearance of such a symptom in female representatives only during the period of bearing a child. Thus, cramps in the lower abdomen during pregnancy occur against the background of:
- stretching of muscles, veins or ligaments in the abdomen, as well as in the uterus;
- an increase in the size of the uterus and fetus, which leads to a displacement of the internal organs and the appearance of a similar symptom;
It follows from this that such a symptom during pregnancy can be triggered by both completely natural causes and dangerous conditions. If spasms are accompanied by vaginal discharge and other symptoms, then you need to go to an obstetrician-gynecologist for help as soon as possible.
As for the male representatives, there are not so many specific reasons for the appearance of the main clinical manifestation. Cramps in the lower abdomen in men, in addition to the above sources, can cause inflammation of the prostate gland.
The expression of such an unpleasant symptom in children is not considered uncommon. In babies up to a year old, it is caused by the incomplete formation of the organs of the digestive system and is considered a completely normal sign. However, there are several other situations against which abdominal cramps appear in a child up to a year old:
- insufficient production of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary for the breakdown of breast milk;
- dysbacteriosis, formed due to the fact that the expectant mother during pregnancy took a large amount of antibacterial agents;
- pyloric stenosis.
In children of the older age group, the stomach hurts for the following reasons:
- pancreatic colic;
- appendicitis;
- helminthic invasion;
- gastritis;
- active physical activity that does not correspond to the age category of the child;
- allergic reaction to food;
- upset stool or diarrhea;
- the course of rotavirus infection;
- urinary tract infection;
- prolonged exposure to stressful situations or nervous strain.
The most rare causes of abdominal cramps are:
Classification
Spasms of the abdominal muscles are usually divided into:
- tonic - characterized by prolonged muscle tension;
- clonic - jerky spasms. They differ from the previous variety in that muscle contractions alternate with smooth muscle relaxation.
Symptoms
In each person, abdominal muscle cramps will be accompanied by the manifestation of individual clinical signs. The first symptom, against which other symptoms will develop, is pain. It can be either periodic or permanent. The degree of intensity varies from dull and aching to sharp and cutting. In some cases, the pain can be so pronounced that the person is forced to take an uncomfortable position, often knee-elbow. Sometimes the opposite happens - it is very difficult to stay in one place, and to reduce pain, you need to move more.
In addition, severe abdominal cramps can be supplemented by the following symptoms:
- nausea, which often leads to vomiting. Often in the vomit there are blood impurities;
- difficult breathing;
- vaginal bleeding;
- rise in temperature;
- irradiation of pain sensations on the entire surface of the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity, in the perineum and scrotum, on the chest, neck and shoulder;
- a change in the shade of feces - they will become black;
- violation of the process of defecation - abdominal cramps and diarrhea are much more common than constipation;
- release of a large amount of cold sticky sweat;
- urinary retention.
Diagnostics
If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, you should seek qualified help as soon as possible. There are several doctors who can identify the causes of the appearance of the main clinical sign, among them:
The establishment of the etiological factor requires an integrated approach and is based on the data of laboratory and instrumental examinations. But before their appointment, the doctor must independently carry out several manipulations:
- to study the medical history and anamnesis of the patient's life - this will help to identify one or another predisposing factor;
- perform a thorough physical examination, which must necessarily include palpation of the abdomen. During this procedure, the clinician pays attention to the patient's response. Women need a gynecological examination and a pregnancy test;
- conduct a detailed survey aimed at obtaining a complete picture of the course of abdominal cramps. To do this, it is necessary to report the presence and the first time of onset of symptoms.
Among laboratory tests, the following have the greatest diagnostic value:
- general and biochemical analysis of blood - will show a change in its composition characteristic of the course of the inflammatory process or other ailments;
- general analysis of urine - to control the functioning of the urinary system;
- microscopic examination of feces - will indicate the presence of eggs of worms or particles of other pathogens.
The basis of diagnostics is instrumental examinations of the patient, including:
- FEGDS - endoscopic procedure for evaluating the internal surface of the digestive tract;
- Ultrasound of the peritoneum;
- radiography with or without contrast agent;
These are just the main diagnostic measures that are necessary to establish the causes of abdominal cramps. Each patient is individually assigned additional tests and examinations.
Treatment
The tactics of eliminating such a symptom directly depends on the cause that caused the appearance of spasms.
The general treatment regimen includes:
- taking painkillers aimed at stopping pain;
- intravenous infusion of medicinal solutions - to restore fluid lost due to profuse vomiting and diarrhea;
- physiotherapy procedures;
- the use of antiemetic and antibacterial agents;
- compliance with a sparing diet;
- the use of alternative medicine prescriptions - only after the approval of the attending physician.
If a person is disturbed by severe abdominal cramps, then, first of all, it is necessary to completely refuse to eat any food for several days - this is called therapeutic fasting. Often it lasts no more than three days, during which you can drink water without gas or green tea without sugar.
Diet therapy involves a complete rejection of:
- fatty and spicy foods;
- canned food and smoked meats;
- marinades and pickles;
- fresh bread and muffins;
- confectionery and sweets;
- spices;
- mayonnaise and hot sauces;
- carbonated drinks and alcohol;
- strong coffee, black tea and cocoa.
Such a dietary restriction must be observed for at least three months, at which time it is allowed to eat:
- lean meats and fish;
- low-fat dairy products;
- vegetables and fruits after they have undergone heat treatment;
- vegetarian and dairy first courses;
- steam omelets and soft-boiled eggs;
- compotes and kissels.
A complete list of allowed and prohibited foods, an approximate menu and recommendations for cooking is provided only by the attending physician.
Good results can be achieved by folk methods that involve the use of:
- cumin seeds;
- lemon juice;
- mint and ginger;
- cardamom and coriander;
- fennel seeds;
- dandelion roots and leaves.
The implementation of surgical intervention to eliminate the source of such a symptom is decided on an individual basis, but is never performed in cases of abdominal cramps during pregnancy.
Prevention
So that a person does not have problems with abdominal cramps, you need to follow the general rules, including:
- adherence to dietary recommendations;
- the implementation of a good rest;
- avoidance of stressful situations and physical overwork;
- walking, especially after meals;
- taking medications only as prescribed by the clinician;
- drinking large amounts of fluid per day;
- control over regular bowel movements;
- wearing a special bandage during pregnancy;
- undergoing a complete medical examination several times a year.
Timely detection of abdominal cramps, as well as complete diagnosis and complex treatment increase the likelihood of a favorable prognosis - the complete elimination of the etiological factor and symptoms.
"Cramps in the abdomen" is observed in diseases:
Intestinal dysbacteriosis in children is a pathological process in which there is a violation of the composition of the intestinal microflora. The total number of opportunistic microorganisms increases and, at the same time, beneficial bacteria gradually die. Imbalance provokes the appearance of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, a decrease in the reactivity of the body, the progression of anemia, as well as other serious pathological conditions. In the medical literature, this disease is also referred to as intestinal dysbiosis.
Parametritis is an inflammatory process of periuterine tissue, in which venous and lymphatic vessels are localized in large numbers. In most cases, such a disease develops against the background of a complicated abortion or labor activity, the establishment of intrauterine devices with damage to the tissues of the uterus. Any surgical intervention only provokes the spread and development of infection.
Enterovirus infection is a group of acute infectious diseases that affect not only adults but also children. A characteristic feature of this disorder is that enteroviruses initially multiply in the gastrointestinal tract, but do not cause the expression of symptoms of intestinal diseases. The second place of localization of bacteria reproduction is the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs. Bacteria often spread and affect the skin, heart, spinal cord, or brain. The activity of viruses can cause both a severe deterioration in the health of the child, and cause minor ailments. The incubation period ranges from two to thirty days, but often does not exceed a week. Children or young people are often affected.
Erosion of the stomach is a violation of the integrity of the mucous membrane of this organ. A characteristic feature is that its deeper tissues do not undergo a pathogenic process, and after healing, erosion does not leave any traces. Such a disease in combination with erosive damage to the duodenum occurs in fifteen percent of all recorded diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
With the help of exercise and abstinence, most people can do without medicine.
How to get rid of abdominal cramps, their causes and treatment
Abdominal cramps are among the most common symptoms. This symptom is found in many people, while it does not depend on gender, occupation or age. Most often, spasm indicates the development of pathological in the body. But to be sure of this, you need to seek help from a doctor.
Causes of abdominal cramps
When the abdominal muscles reduce, a person cannot fully perform his work. The functionality of all systems deteriorates sharply, since the unpleasant process affects directly the nerve endings. Why does the stomach cramp?
The reasons are as follows:
- manifestation of inflammation in the appendix;
- development of obstruction in the digestive tract;
- the appearance of symptoms of renal colic;
- the formation or exacerbation of adhesions;
- infringement of a hernia;
- blockage of the biliary tract;
- diseases of the gallbladder or liver;
- acute poisoning of the body;
- irrational eating and poor chewing of food;
- irritable bowel syndrome;
- chronic pancreatitis;
- dysbacteriosis of the intestinal tract;
- colitis;
- chronic constipation;
- violation of fat metabolism;
- diabetes;
- peptic ulcer of the stomach and intestines;
- cholecystitis of acute or chronic type;
- problems with the urinary system.
When abdominal cramps appear, the causes in women may be hidden in the following:
- the flow of menstruation;
- the formation of the syndrome before menstruation;
- pathological processes of the gynecological type;
- adhesive process in the area of the appendages;
- hormonal imbalance.
A woman's stomach can also hurt while carrying a baby. Then the reasons are:
- stretching of muscle structures, veins or ligamentous apparatus in the abdomen and uterine cavity;
- an increase in the size of the uterine cavity and fetus. This leads to displacement of internal organs;
- false contractions. Usually this phenomenon occurs after 28 weeks. Thus, the body trains before the upcoming birth process;
- the introduction of the egg into the walls of the uterine cavity. Then the spasm occurs in the first weeks of pregnancy;
- cervical disease;
- exfoliation of the placenta;
- development of an ectopic pregnancy;
- premature labor activity;
- miscarriage or threatened miscarriage.
Pain of a spasmodic nature is often found in babies under one year old. The development of an adverse symptom is associated with:
- with insufficient production of an enzyme in the form of lactase, which is responsible for the breakdown of breast milk;
- intestinal dysbiosis. It occurs against the background of the fact that a woman at the stage of gestation used antibacterial agents;
- pylostenosis.
Why does the stomach hurt with cramps in older children? The causes of the pathological process may be hidden:
If abdominal cramps are observed, the causes in men may be hidden:
- in the development of prostatitis;
- urethritis;
- liver disease;
- heart attack;
- pneumonia;
- groin injuries;
- shingles.
If there are pains, cramps in the abdomen, you need to urgently consult a specialist. If symptoms appear in children and pregnant women, an ambulance should be called urgently and the patient should be hospitalized.
Associated symptoms
When the stomach cramps, other symptoms may also appear. One of the main symptoms is pain. It can occur both constantly and periodically. The intensity of painful sensations can also be different: aching, dull, sharp, cutting, stabbing. In some situations, the pain is so pronounced and pronounced that you have to take an uncomfortable position. In others, on the contrary, when tilted, it begins to reduce the muscle frame even more. And to remove it, you have to actively move.
In addition to pain, the patient complains of:
- for nausea and vomiting. Often in the vomit there are blood impurities;
- difficulty breathing;
- bleeding from the vagina;
- increase in temperature values;
- painful sensations that can radiate to the abdominal region, perineum, groin, chest, neck and shoulder;
- discoloration of feces. They may turn black;
- violation of the process of emptying the intestinal tract. Abdominal cramps and diarrhea are much more common than constipation;
- the release of a large amount of cold and sticky sweat;
- urinary retention and cramps.
Based on the symptoms, a preliminary diagnosis can be made.
Methods for diagnosing abdominal cramps
If the stomach or muscles in the groin or abdominal region are cramping, you need to seek help from a specialist. There are several specialists who can help determine the cause of the pain. This group includes therapists, neurologists, gastroenterologists, gynecologists.
To establish the cause of pathological pain, it is necessary to undergo an examination.
It is as follows:
- study of the patient's history;
- physical examination, palpation of the abdomen;
- identification of patient complaints and associated symptoms;
- general and biochemical blood test;
- passing urine for analysis;
- the study of feces under a microscope;
- fibrogastroduodenoscopy;
- ultrasound diagnostics of the abdominal organs;
- x-ray examination using contrast fluid;
- electrocardiography.
These activities are mandatory. Additional diagnostic methods may be prescribed to clarify the diagnosis.
Treatment of abdominal cramps
What to do for women and men who are worried about severe abdominal cramps? There are several measures that will help temporarily eliminate or alleviate the symptom.
- breathe evenly, while trying to distract from the painful sensations. Relax completely. This technique will help remove pain and spasms of a mild nature;
- sit in a reclining chair. Think of something pleasant;
- focus on your breath. Breathe shallowly but quickly. Continue manipulation until you feel significant relief;
- don't worry about spasms. Concentrate on things that do not upset you, but, on the contrary, cheer you up;
- take a rest. Rest is the best medicine.
If it reduces the abdominal muscles in men and women further, then you need to call an ambulance. The doctor will look at the patient and make a preliminary diagnosis.
Medical therapy includes:
- the use of painkillers that relieve pain;
- taking a course of therapeutic massage;
- administering injections through a vein. This will restore the balance of fluid that has been lost due to repeated vomiting and diarrhea;
- implementation of physiotherapy procedures;
- taking antiemetic drugs and antibiotics;
- following a strict diet.
If the patient is concerned about cramps and spasm in the abdomen, then the consumption of any food should be excluded. It will take a day or two for the pain to go away.
Diet for spasms involves exclusion from the diet:
- fatty and spicy foods;
- canned and smoked meats;
- marinades and pickles;
- fresh pastries and bread;
- confectionery and sweets;
- spices and spices;
- mayonnaise and various sauces;
- carbonated and alcoholic drinks;
- strong coffee, tea and cocoa.
- lean meats and fish;
- low-fat dairy products;
- vegetable and fruit dishes that have undergone heat treatment;
- vegetarian dishes;
- steam omelets and soft-boiled eggs;
- compotes and jelly.
What to do and eat, only the doctor will tell based on the cause of the development of spasms.
As an additional therapy, alternative methods can be used. The most popular recipes include:
- infusions of cumin;
- drinking lemon juice;
- decoctions of mint and ginger;
- fennel infusion.
You can prevent the occurrence of spasms if you follow all the recommendations on nutrition, lead an active lifestyle and give up addictions. But if the discomfort is still bothering, then there is no need to delay the visit to the doctor. Only a doctor can identify the cause and prescribe adequate treatment.
Spasm of the abdominal muscles
Our body is wisely arranged. If something is not right, there is discomfort or pain. There is no point in ignoring these feelings. After all, their main task is to save life, that is, the instinct of self-preservation works through pain or fear.
Stomach pain can be a sign of anything from eating a fatty meal to serious illnesses such as malignant tumors and so on. You need to go to the doctor, undergo an examination and, if necessary, be treated.
Often, colic in the abdomen occurs due to muscle spasms, in which the muscles of the smooth muscles contract convulsively.
Most often, pain in the abdomen occurs due to improper functioning of the digestive tract.
In order to avoid unpleasant and serious consequences, it is better to listen to your body and try to rid it of disturbing factors. Of course, you don’t have to run around the clinics if the pain occasionally appears and disappears without a trace, but if this happens regularly, then you need to contact a specialist.
Abdominal cramps may be accompanied by fever. This symptom occurs with inflammation of the appendix or with another inflammatory process.
Symptoms of abdominal muscle spasm
Spasmodic pain often occurs due to an unhealthy lifestyle, when a person does not eat right and is constantly under stress. Pain can appear due to problems in the work of internal organs: the liver, stomach, pancreas, kidneys, and so on. The blood vessels that are located in the abdominal cavity also suffer from spasms.
Symptoms of abdominal muscle spasm may occur during menstruation. This is quite normal, because in women of reproductive age, the hormonal background changes once a month, as a result of which the uterus contracts. Cramping pain appears in the lower abdomen. If you press a little on the painful point, then the pain goes away.
Spasm of the abdominal muscles causes
There can be many reasons for pain. In order to establish the true one, it is necessary to analyze what preceded the spasm. If it is completely unclear for what reason the pain appeared, then it is better to visit a doctor and undergo an examination.
Causes of spasm of the abdominal muscles in diseases of the internal organs, in stress, and so on. If the pain in the abdomen is inexplicable and unbearable, then it is better to call an ambulance.
How to relieve spasm of the abdominal muscles?
In order to alleviate the situation, it is necessary to press on the center of painful sensations. This will relax the muscles and increase blood circulation. Massage will help, which is desirable to do after a warm bath. Some people find contrast showers helpful. Hot water dilates blood vessels, while cold water constricts them. After the massage, a warm heating pad or a bottle of water should be placed on the source of pain.
How to relieve spasm of the abdominal muscles? In order to make it easier, you need to tighten and relax the abdominal muscles several times. Exercise will allow you to release lactic acid and, thereby, relax muscle tissue. It is also useful to drink a glass of warm milk, which will reduce the acidity in the stomach and relieve tension.
Doctors prescribe medication if spasms are caused by diseases such as anemia, diabetes, osteochondrosis, and others. Antispasmodics are usually prescribed, such as Ketorol, Ananlgin, No-shpa, Spazmalgon or Ketonal.
For pain in the abdomen, you need to lie on your side and try to relax. It will be easier if you lightly press your legs to your stomach. Warm drinks, a bath, and painkillers will provide temporary relief.
Spasms of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy
During pregnancy, changes occur in a woman's body that cause some discomfort. The uterus grows, the ligaments that support it stretch and become elastic, and the abdominal organs change their position. All this gives discomfort.
Cramping of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy is a normal phenomenon that you should not be afraid of. In order to alleviate the situation, you need to rest more, less physically strain and wear a bandage.
If the pain becomes severe, while the woman sees some kind of discharge from the vagina, then an ambulance should be urgently called. After all, there is always a threat of premature birth, which should take place under the supervision of doctors or not take place at all, if the time has not come.
In general, pregnant women should take care of themselves. It is natural not to work, if to work, then without much stress. Receive only positive emotions - watch cartoons and romantic comedies. If something or someone is trying to spoil the mood, do not pay any attention to this fact.
If forty weeks have passed since conception, and cramps have appeared in the abdomen, then this is most likely a sign of the onset of the birth process. A pregnant woman needs to detect the time between spasms - contractions and call an ambulance. There is no need to panic, although this is painful, it is a normal process from which you cannot escape.
What to do with stomach cramps
Spasms in the gastrointestinal tract are usually considered as a symptom of a malfunction in the activity of the digestive organ. With a similar phenomenon, which looks like an attack, there is also a violation of healthy motility and secretion of the gastrointestinal tract, which adversely affects digestion.
Provoking factors
Given the ICD-10 code, stomach cramps can be attributed to pathological processes:
- R 10.0. - acute abdomen.
- R 10.1. - pain in the stomach, namely in the epigastric region.
- R 10.4. - Abdominal pain (colic, childhood seizures).
The causes of abdominal cramps can be very diverse. Most often, spastic abdominal pain is due to a neurological, digestive disorder.
Cramps and pain in the stomach occur for the following reasons:
- regular and prolonged stressful situations;
- hypothermia, smoking;
- poisoning, food allergy;
- Eating spicy, rough, fatty foods;
- alcohol;
- medicinal preparations;
- coffee;
- improper and irregular nutrition;
- influence of chemicals, intoxication.
These causes can cause severe abdominal cramps, accompanied by diarrhea, vomiting, and cramps. Most often, pain and cramps in the stomach occur in emotionally unstable people who have a weak nervous system and a tendency to depression. Cramps in the abdomen can be the result of dystonia, neurosis and frequent stressful situations.
In addition to all of the above, spasmodic syndrome can occur due to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Convulsive reaction of the stomach is observed with ulcers, duodenitis and gastritis. It is important to know what to do with abdominal cramps in order to avoid complications.
The pathogenesis of spastic contractions
Spasm in the stomach or gastrospasm is a special form of a disorder of the motor activity of the walls of the stomach, manifested by an intense pain syndrome. The reason for this phenomenon is a decrease in the excitability point located in the nervous visceral system. At this time, there is a tone of the vagus nerve.
Functional pain and abdominal cramps are most often observed in people between the ages of twenty and thirty-five, which is explained by malnutrition and stress. In older people, as a rule, chronic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract are recorded. Gastrospasm occurs in three main forms:
- total reduction;
- limited reduction;
- partial reduction.
Total contraction is a secondary development of gastrospasm due to an existing ailment of the gastrointestinal tract, central nervous system.
Partial contractile activity is a reflex phenomenon in which a large part of the stomach is involved. For an example of partial contractions, one can mention the two-cavity gastric form.
As for the limited contraction of the stomach, this phenomenon is more common in smokers, with professional intoxication, and an unhealthy lifestyle. Such activity is observed if there is a higher nervous regulation of the digestive function, as well as in ulcers and tuberculosis.
Clinical picture
The main symptom of gastric spasm is a sharp and growing pain in the epigastric region, occurring against the background of weakness, poor health and discomfort. Spasms are accompanied by diarrhea, fever, vomiting, apathy, weakness. Intense spasm causes contraction of the abdominal muscles, as a result of which the person is forced to take the “fetal” position. This condition is accompanied by protrusion of the abdomen, muscle tension, chills.
It is worth noting that gastrospasms proceed in different ways. Symptoms, the course of the disease are due to the cause that provoked this condition. In most cases, the development of spasm occurs on an empty stomach.
If you experience abdominal cramps, you should think about pancreatitis, peptic ulcer, pylorospasm. The ulcer is accompanied by painful sensations after eating, the duration of which is from thirty to sixty minutes. On an empty stomach, such sensations do not make themselves felt with a peptic ulcer.
As for pylorospasm - contraction of the gastric pylorus, it most often manifests itself in people with a predisposition to neurosis, stress. This phenomenon takes the form of an attack, which is accompanied by vomiting and pain in the stomach for thirty minutes after eating. The picture improves after emptying the gastric cavity.
With pancreatitis - inflammation of the pancreas - unpleasant sensations appear after eating, they are given to the liver, lower back. Diarrhea with spasms are observed after eating unusual, stale food, with irritated intestines. The pain occurs against the background of flatulence, bloating, frequent defecation.
If spasms are accompanied by an increase in body temperature, then most likely there is an infectious disease, poisoning. Eating spoiled foods or unwashed fruits can lead to food poisoning. With infectious lesions, intestinal bleeding can occur in the feces. In such a situation, the help of a doctor is required.
Spasms and nausea indicate cholecystitis, gallbladder dyskinesia. The main pain is localized under the right rib. It is observed after eating sweets, fatty, salty and smoked foods. To get a reliable diagnosis, you need to undergo an examination.
When spastic pain is accompanied by sour belching, we can talk about the presence of gastroduodenitis. This disease is an inflammation of the duodenum and stomach walls. The illness can last for several months. The pain syndrome is concentrated in the epigastric, umbilical region. Signs: bursting and feeling of heaviness.
Medical therapy
The treatment course should be selected by the doctor individually for each case, taking into account the cause of the pathology. Stomach cramps are helped by certain medications that are prescribed by a doctor. In addition, it is important to follow a diet. The following foods should be excluded from the diet: fresh pastries, spicy, salty, smoked, fatty, fried foods, coffee, cocoa, alcohol, soda, spices and spices.
To eliminate stomach cramps, you can take antispasmodics such as No-Shpa (two tablets three times a day), Baralgin or Spazmalgon, Akabel (2 tablets 3 times a day), Papaverine (40-80 milligrams four times a day).
Suitable antimicrobials include Erythromycin, Levofloxacin, Clarithromycin, and Amoxicillin. It is recommended to drink probiotics: Acylact, Lactobacterin, Linex, Florin, Bifidumbacterin, Sporobacterin, Kolibatkerin and Acipol. Homeopathy, herbal medicine and reflexology are shown. As for surgical intervention, it is resorted to with advanced forms of ulcers or gastric erosion.
Gastrospasm can be the result of many ailments. To prevent complications, you must be attentive to your body and, if symptoms occur, contact a gastroenterologist.
Body muscle cramps
This article will focus on this type of cramps, like muscle cramps. The most common of muscle cramps are cramps in the calf muscles - calves. An entire article is devoted to them.
Causes of muscle cramps
Any convulsive condition is characterized by involuntary, erratic contractions of the muscles of the body or individual muscle groups. Generalized muscle cramps occur with the following diseases:
- Epilepsy
- Encephalitis of various etiologies
- Meningitis
- Injuries
- Tumors
- Eclampsia of pregnant women
- With general infections and intoxications occurring with fever. Such convulsions are often observed in childhood.
Local convulsions are observed:
- With overstrain of individual muscle groups. The reason for their occurrence is often repeated the same fast movements. Local cramps, cramps in the muscles of the arms and legs, can occur in athletes, musicians, etc. Even if this condition quickly disappears on its own, the muscle hurts after the cramps for a long time, sometimes for several hours.
- hypothermia
- Elderly age
- Abuse of coffee and cigarettes
So, why the muscles cramp, figured out, let's talk in more detail about some types of convulsive contractions.
Leg muscle cramps
The most common type of cramp that many people experience is leg cramps associated with overexertion, wearing uncomfortable high-heeled shoes, and hypothermia. Medical care for cramps in the calf muscles caused by the listed reasons is not required. It is enough to eliminate the factors that provoked them. If there are frequent nocturnal cramps of the calf muscles, it is necessary to undergo a medical examination. The doctor will determine exactly why there are cramps in the calf muscles, and prescribe adequate treatment. If painful muscle contractions are caused by a deficiency in the blood of potassium, magnesium, calcium, you will be prescribed drugs that make up for this deficiency. The most common drugs for the treatment of calf muscle cramps are:
- Asparkam
- Potassium Orotate
- Panangin
- Calcium, magnesium, vitamin D preparations
It should be remembered that taking medications is possible only after they are prescribed by a doctor! If you take them correctly and follow additional medical recommendations on diet and nutrition, the treatment of leg muscle cramps will quickly give positive results. It should be noted that spasms of the calf muscles are not often treated with drugs - usually it is enough to eliminate external causes.
Other seizures
Back muscle cramps
Sometimes, with an awkward turn of the body or a long stay in one position (sitting at a computer), cramps of the back muscles occur. Less commonly, they can be caused by hypothermia, a large load on the spine. First aid for such cramps is warming procedures. A heating pad or any warming ointment is well suited for this.
Abdominal muscle cramps
Abdominal cramps can occur:
- In pregnant women
- For various diseases of the abdominal cavity
- With intestinal colic
- With tumor processes localized in the abdominal cavity
- In women during the menstrual period
They are quite rare, and each individual case requires a detailed diagnosis.
Thigh muscle cramp
Cramps the thigh muscles usually for the same reason as the calf muscles. Sometimes these two types of convulsions are combined, delivering unbearable pain to a person. Additional causes of hip cramps include a violation of the innervation of the femoral muscles. This condition can be caused by various diseases of the spine.
Treatment of muscle cramps
Like any other, drug treatment of muscle spasms of the body is prescribed only by a doctor! The correct implementation of medical recommendations, the organization of the correct regimen and the correction of the diet depend on you. Medicines for muscle cramps are prescribed for long courses if they are caused by a serious illness, such as epilepsy, meningitis. For prophylactic purposes, drugs for muscle cramps can be prescribed to children with hyperthermic convulsive syndrome or children with congenital encephalopathy. But no matter what convulsions you encounter, remember that a specialist consultation is necessary, because a convulsive attack can be the first symptom of a formidable disease.
Colic is the sudden onset of spasmodic pain. There are various diseases that can cause abdominal colic in adults. What to do when this situation arises depends on the disease.
Note! First of all, it is necessary to determine the cause of colic. For this, a number of activities are carried out by the doctor. The use of pain medications will make it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause.
The main directions of treatment of intestinal colic in an adult
The ailment in question must be treated, based on the cause of its occurrence. Therefore, it is advisable to correlate the main directions of treatment with the factor that caused colic:
One of the most common causes of abdominal colic in adults is inflammation of the appendix. Which may require immediate surgery, other treatment is not expected.
Colic in the abdomen in an adult is a serious reason to see a doctor, and if the attacks are repeated, it is not worth delaying a visit to the clinic
Binge eating, especially greasy or stale food, or irregular meals. In this case, it will be necessary to change the usual mode. Start eating regularly, give up fried, smoked, fatty, sweet, spicy, coffee and strong tea.
Good results in the treatment of gastritis are shown by the use of traditional medicine.
Poisoning expired products, inedible mushrooms or berries, low-quality medicines, lead. In case of food poisoning, it is necessary to rinse the stomach and remove toxins from the body.
In case of diarrhea or vomiting, it is important to maintain fluid balance. If the poisoning is serious, for example, poisonous mushrooms or lead, then hospitalization is necessary.
Passive lifestyle. Antispasmodic drugs can be used to alleviate symptoms, and it is necessary to begin to lead a more mobile lifestyle. At least once every 1.5-2 hours, you need to take a break and do at least a few of the simplest exercises.
Acute viral infection. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as paracetamol, are prescribed for treatment.
You can also speed up recovery by taking a large amount of liquid, hot foot baths, inhalations. Antibiotics are useless in viral diseases and are used only in the presence of complications.
Infectious diseases of the intestine. With these diseases, complex treatment is required. Antibacterial therapy is carried out, toxins are removed from the body with the help of sorbent preparations, it is necessary to maintain the fluid level and follow a special diet.
To prevent dysbacteriosis, Hilak, Lineks and Bifikol are taken.
You can also use traditional medicine, for example, calendula, cabbage juice, wormwood.
Urolithiasis disease. Depending on the nature of the disease, treatment may take place at home or require special procedures to break up the stones.
At the same time, anti-inflammatory drugs (Inubofren) are prescribed, as well as accelerating the withdrawal of stones (Nifedipine, Tamsulosin).
Cholecystitis. It is necessary to follow a diet, fasting for a couple of days will be useful. Choleretic drugs, cholekinetics or choleretics are used, depending on the nature of the motility of the biliary tract.
In the presence of pain, antispasmodics are used. Mineral water is recommended.
Tumor development. To remove the tumor in the early stages, a surgical operation is sufficient. In the later stages, the use of radiation or chemical therapy will be required, possibly cutting off part of the intestine.
Pancreatitis. For the treatment of a chronic variant, choleretic and enzyme preparations are used (Festal, Creon, Panciatrat). Acute pancreatitis may require surgery and antibiotics. It is also necessary to take vitamins, give up alcohol and junk food.
Kidney inflammation. Anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics are prescribed. It is required to follow a diet, to give up salty, fried and fatty.
Cholelithiasis. Antispasmodics, painkillers, intravenous infusions are used. Antibiotics are used to fight infection. The gallbladder may need to be removed.
Drug treatment of colic in the abdomen
With colic in the abdomen in adults, it is strictly forbidden to be treated on your own, which makes it necessary to consult with a specialist.
Depending on the disease, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, choleretic, antispasmodic drugs, sorbents and antibiotics are used. In many cases, it is required to take drugs that prevent the occurrence of dysbacteriosis.
Sedatives
- Drops of Zelenin. Consist of tinctures of valerian, belladonna, levomenthol and lily of the valley. Used for renal colic.
- Valoserdin. Consists of phenobarbital, ethyl ester of bromisovaleric acid, oregano and mint oils. Effective for intestinal colic.
- Afobazol. It is a tranquilizer, suppresses the manifestation of fear and anxiety, as well as intestinal colic.
Antispasmodic drugs
To alleviate the condition, it is necessary to use drugs from the group of antispasmodics. They will ease the spasms, easing the discomfort.
- No-shpa - 2 tablets;
- Papaverine - 1 tablet;
- Belladonna extract - 2 tablets;
- Melissa infusion - 1 cup.
Sorbents
Sorbents relieve bloating, have a positive effect if colic is caused by overeating or malnutrition.
- Festal. Helps speed up the digestion of food due to enzymes. The content of bile accelerates the removal of digested products from the body.
- Mezim. Accelerates the process of digestion of food. Used after surgery. May cause constipation.
- Espumizan. Has a carminative effect. The main component - simethicone, removes gas from the intestines, eliminates heartburn, reduces the secretion of gastric juice.
- Smekta. Helps when colic and bloating are accompanied by diarrhea.
- Enterosgel. The hydrogel included in its composition absorbs harmful substances and gas bubbles in the intestines.
- Activated carbon. It acts as a carminative and also removes toxins from the body.
Preparations based on belladonna leaf extract
The leaves of belladonna (Belladonna) are used for the manufacture of antispasmodic and analgesic drugs.
- Tincture with 40% alcohol. Use 6-9 drops.
- Becarbon- tablets, the composition contains belladonna extract and sodium bicarbonate. Helps with intestinal cramps and increased acidity of the stomach. Applied 1 pc. 2-3 times a day.
- Bepasal- tablets, the composition includes belladonna extract, phenylicylate and papaverine hydrochloride. Eliminates spasms and inhibits the growth of bacteria. Applied 1 pc. 2-3 times a day.
- Bellalgin- tablets, the composition contains analgin, sodium bicarbonate and belladonna extract. Fights spasms and reduces pain.
Folk recipes that help with intestinal colic
- Brew 2 tablespoons of dry motherwort and a pinch of nettle in half a liter of boiling water for an hour. Drink the entire resulting broth throughout the day. The course of admission is 3 weeks.
- Boil 30 g of dried oregano in boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink after eating.
- Steam a teaspoon of lavender flowers in boiling water for a minute. Use lavender tea throughout the day, but no more than 3 doses.
- If colic is accompanied by diarrhea, then you need to make the following infusion. In equal parts, brew alder checkers, thyme, St. John's wort, cinquefoil root, lemon balm sprigs and nettle leaves with a glass of boiling water for half a day. Apply 0.5 cups 30 minutes before meals.
- If colic is chronic, alder decoction will help. 30 g of bark is poured with 20 ml of vodka for 4 hours. Apply 45 drops.
- With increased gas formation, ginger tea will help. In a glass of boiling water, 0.5 tablespoons of the root are brewed.
- Fresh motherwort juice will help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Cabbage juice helps cleanse the body and fight microorganisms. Apply a glass 2 times a day. It is good to add the juice of carrots and beets.
- Lavender oil eliminates spasms and relieves pain, has a positive effect on the nervous system. Dissolve 5 drops in a small amount of water.
- Soak 100 grams of fresh white wormwood in cold water for 20 hours. Then boil the herb for a few minutes, filter, add 400 grams of honey or sugar. Continue cooking until the broth thickens. Take one teaspoon, 4 times a day.
Using an enema for intestinal colic
A cleansing enema will remove all the masses from the intestines, which will lead to the elimination of congestion. It is recommended to use a decoction of chamomile, mint or lemon balm.
Be careful! When the cause of abdominal colic in an adult is unknown, this means that doing an enema is strictly prohibited.
Diet as a treatment for colic in the abdomen
Colic in the abdomen in adults, what to do and what diet to follow, depends on the disease that led to their appearance. There are universal recommendations for a diet during colic:
- it is forbidden to eat any fried food;
- in the absence of diarrhea, add milk and dairy products to the diet;
- fruits and vegetables are in crushed form;
- you can eat buckwheat, rice and wheat porridge, but only in small portions;
- coffee, strong tea and alcohol are strictly prohibited.
Wheat porridge perfectly removes salts, toxins, restores immunity, which makes it one of the valuable dishes on the patient's menu
What to do with colic in the abdomen in adults: various diet options | ||
Type of colic | Foods to Avoid | Featured Products |
intestinal | Fatty meat and animal fats; Whole milk; Rye bread; Millet, oatmeal, pearl barley and corn grits; Sweet foods; Vegetables such as radishes, peppers, cabbage, cucumbers and onions; Sour fruits. | Lean meat; Eggs; Vegetable oil or butter; Cottage cheese, kefir, fermented baked milk, yogurt; Rice and buckwheat; Stewed and boiled vegetables; crackers; Juices. |
Hepatic | Fatty or smoked meat, broths; egg yolks; Mushrooms of any variety; legumes; Garlic and onion; Hot sauces, marinades, seasonings and spices. | A large amount of non-carbonated water; Steamed or boiled food; River fish; Pasta, buckwheat, rice, oatmeal; Vegetable juices. |
Renal | Any fried foods; Meat and its by-products; Mushrooms of all varieties; Spicy and salty; Coffee, tea and chocolate. | vegetable soups; boiled vegetables; Whole grain cereals; Water in large quantities. |
Colic in the abdomen in an adult: first aid
Abdominal cramps in adults can be a sign of appendicitis, making calling an ambulance the number one task. Pain can be relieved by using warmth and rest. It is necessary to monitor the temperature, the presence of diarrhea and vomiting.
In most cases, injections of Atropine, Diphenhydramine or Papaverine are prescribed as first aid. To determine the subsequent therapy, testing and observation are required.
It's important to know! It is strictly forbidden to take antispasmodics and painkillers until a diagnosis is made.
When to see a doctor urgently
If colic occurs in an adult, you should immediately seek help from a doctor. No need to try to diagnose and choose a treatment on your own or try to endure the pain. This can lead to irreversible consequences.
It is necessary to deal with the prevention of diseases that contribute to the occurrence of colic. If there are no chronic diseases, it will be enough to walk often, eat right and give up bad habits.
Colic in the abdomen in adults. What to do to get cured?
Intestinal colic, belching, constipation and other gastrointestinal disorders:
Cramping in the abdomen is a fairly common symptom that occurs in all people, regardless of gender and age category. In most cases, such a sign indicates the course of a pathological process in the body, some of them require immediate medical intervention.
To find out the cause of the occurrence, patients need a physical examination and laboratory and instrumental examinations. The tactics of therapy will directly depend on the causes of the appearance.
Etiology
There is a wide range of predisposing factors for the development of abdominal cramps, they can be both common to everyone and will differ for men, women and children.
The main group of causes of abdominal cramps:
- the development of an inflammatory process in the appendix;
- appearance;
- the formation or exacerbation of adhesive processes;
- infringement of a hernia;
- blockage of the bile ducts;
- damage to the gallbladder or liver;
- acute organism;
- improper eating, in particular, poor chewing of foods;
- chronic;
- violation of fat metabolism;
- or ;
- acute or chronic form;
- a wide range of ailments of the urinary system.
Cramps in the lower abdomen in women may be due to:
- the flow of menstruation;
- gynecological pathologies;
- adhesive process in the appendages;
- hormonal imbalance.
In addition, it is worth highlighting several factors that affect the appearance of such a symptom in female representatives only during the period of bearing a child. Thus, cramps in the lower abdomen during pregnancy occur against the background of:
It follows from this that such a symptom during pregnancy can be triggered by both completely natural causes and dangerous conditions. If spasms are accompanied by vaginal discharge and other symptoms, then you need to go to an obstetrician-gynecologist for help as soon as possible.
The expression of such an unpleasant symptom in children is not considered uncommon. In babies up to a year old, it is caused by the incomplete formation of the organs of the digestive system and is considered a completely normal sign. However, there are several other situations against which abdominal cramps appear in a child up to a year old:
- insufficient production of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary for the breakdown of breast milk;
- , formed due to the fact that the expectant mother during pregnancy took a large amount of antibacterial agents;
In children of the older age group, the stomach hurts for the following reasons:
- pancreatic colic;
- active physical activity that does not correspond to the age category of the child;
- allergic reaction to food;
- upset stool or diarrhea;
- leakage ;
- urinary tract infection;
- prolonged exposure to stressful situations or nervous strain.
The most rare causes of abdominal cramps are:
- injury to the groin or pelvic area;
Classification
Spasms of the abdominal muscles are usually divided into:
- tonic - characterized by prolonged muscle tension;
- clonic - jerky spasms. They differ from the previous variety in that muscle contractions alternate with smooth muscle relaxation.
Symptoms
In each person, abdominal muscle cramps will be accompanied by the manifestation of individual clinical signs. The first symptom against which other symptoms will develop is. It can be either periodic or permanent. The degree of intensity varies from dull and aching to sharp and cutting. In some cases, the pain can be so pronounced that the person is forced to take an uncomfortable position, often knee-elbow. Sometimes the opposite happens - it is very difficult to stay in one place, and to reduce pain, you need to move more.
In addition, severe abdominal cramps can be supplemented by the following symptoms:
- nausea, which often leads to vomiting. Often in the vomit there are blood impurities;
- vaginal bleeding;
- rise in temperature;
- irradiation of pain sensations on the entire surface of the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity, in the perineum and scrotum, on the chest, neck and shoulder;
- a change in the shade of feces - they will acquire;
- violation of the process of defecation - abdominal cramps and diarrhea are much more common than constipation;
- release of a large amount;
- urinary retention.
Diagnostics
If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, you should seek qualified help as soon as possible. There are several doctors who can identify the causes of the appearance of the main clinical sign, among them:
- obstetrician-gynecologist - only in cases where the patient is a pregnant woman.
The establishment of the etiological factor requires an integrated approach and is based on the data of laboratory and instrumental examinations. But before their appointment, the doctor must independently carry out several manipulations:
- to study the medical history and anamnesis of the patient's life - this will help to identify one or another predisposing factor;
- perform a thorough physical examination, which must necessarily include palpation of the abdomen. During this procedure, the clinician pays attention to the patient's response. Women need a gynecological examination and a pregnancy test;
- conduct a detailed survey aimed at obtaining a complete picture of the course of abdominal cramps. To do this, it is necessary to report the presence and the first time of onset of symptoms.
Among laboratory tests, the following have the greatest diagnostic value:
- general and biochemical analysis of blood - will show a change in its composition characteristic of the course of the inflammatory process or other ailments;
- general analysis of urine - to control the functioning of the urinary system;
- microscopic examination of feces - will indicate the presence of eggs of worms or particles of other pathogens.
The basis of diagnostics is instrumental examinations of the patient, including:
- FEGDS - endoscopic procedure for evaluating the internal surface of the digestive tract;
- Ultrasound of the peritoneum;
- radiography with or without contrast agent;
These are just the main diagnostic measures that are necessary to establish the causes of abdominal cramps. Each patient is individually assigned additional tests and examinations.
Treatment
The tactics of eliminating such a symptom directly depends on the cause that caused the appearance of spasms.
The general treatment regimen includes:
- taking painkillers aimed at stopping pain;
- taking a course of therapeutic massage;
- intravenous infusion of medicinal solutions - to restore fluid lost due to profuse vomiting and diarrhea;
- physiotherapy procedures;
- the use of antiemetic and antibacterial agents;
- compliance with a sparing diet;
- the use of alternative medicine prescriptions - only after the approval of the attending physician.
If a person is disturbed by severe abdominal cramps, then, first of all, it is necessary to completely refuse to eat any food for several days - this is called therapeutic fasting. Often it lasts no more than three days, during which you can drink water without gas or green tea without sugar.
Diet therapy involves a complete rejection of:
- fatty and spicy foods;
- canned food and smoked meats;
- marinades and pickles;
- fresh bread and muffins;
- confectionery and sweets;
- spices;
- mayonnaise and hot sauces;
- carbonated drinks and alcohol;
- strong coffee, black tea and cocoa.
Such a dietary restriction must be observed for at least three months, at which time it is allowed to eat:
- lean meats and fish;
- low-fat dairy products;
- vegetables and fruits after they have undergone heat treatment;
- vegetarian and dairy first courses;
- steam omelets and soft-boiled eggs;
- compotes and kissels.
A complete list of allowed and prohibited foods, an approximate menu and recommendations for cooking is provided only by the attending physician.
Good results can be achieved by folk methods that involve the use of:
- cumin seeds;
- lemon juice;
- mint and ginger;
- cardamom and coriander;
- fennel seeds;
- dandelion roots and leaves.
The implementation of surgical intervention to eliminate the source of such a symptom is decided on an individual basis, but is never performed in cases of abdominal cramps during pregnancy.
Prevention
So that a person does not have problems with abdominal cramps, you need to follow the general rules, including:
- adherence to dietary recommendations;
- the implementation of a good rest;
- avoidance of stressful situations and physical overwork;
- walking, especially after meals;
- taking medications only as prescribed by the clinician;
- drinking large amounts of fluid per day;
- control over regular bowel movements;
- wearing a special bandage during pregnancy;
- undergoing a complete medical examination several times a year.
Timely detection of abdominal cramps, as well as complete diagnosis and complex treatment increase the likelihood of a favorable prognosis - the complete elimination of the etiological factor and symptoms.
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