Reasons for Crampy Abdominal Pain

Stomach cramps or a dull ache in the belly usually last for not more than a few hours or a day at the most if they are caused by a stomach bug or an infection. The fact that you complain of stomach cramps for a few days and have ruled out the problem of constipation is cause for concern. There are a number of reasons for stomach cramps that require medical treatment. Severe abdominal pain may even require emergency medical attention such as in the case of appendicitis. Other possible causes for crampy abdominal pain include:

Cramps accompanied by Bloating and Gas: If trapped gas is causing the cramps, an easy solution is charcoal tablets or other over-the-counter medications to relieve wind.
Cramps and Diarrhea: Gastroenteritis is a type of stomach infection that causes symptoms such as cramps, diarrhea, and nausea. This type of bacterial infection responds best to antibiotics. If the pain and diarrhea persists even after medical treatment you may be suffering from a chronic condition such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Sudden abdominal pain and cramps could also indicate:

A perforated peptic ulcer
Gallstones
Kidney stones
Diverticulitis
Heartburn and acid reflux
Urinary tract infection
Depression or stress

Remember that the intensity of the cramps is no indication of seriousness. Stomach cramps caused by gas pr diarrhea may be severe and very painful whereas cramps caused by life-threatening diseases such as appendicitis or colon cancer may produce persistent mild pain for days. To help relieve cramps and abdominal pain you can try the following:

Deep Breathing Exercises – Deep breathing can help divert your attention from the cramps. In case stress is aggravating the condition, deep breathing also helps relax the mind and muscles and relieves pain.
Change your Diet – Keep your meals bland and simple until the cause of the cramps is treated. In case you experience vomiting along with the cramps don’t eat anything until the symptoms have passes. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and carbonated drinks along with spicy, oily and fatty foods to reduce the pressure on your digestive system. Solid food may also exacerbate the condition so stick to semi-solids or liquids only.
Light Exercise – Mild to moderate exercise such as walking or yoga may help relieve cramping muscles and reduce gas and bloating.
Heat Therapy – Place a hot water bottle or heated bag on your stomach for temporary relief. In case this remedy causes nausea or discomfort, stop immediately and try something else.

There are a number of reasons for stomach cramps that require medical treatment. Severe abdominal pain may even require emergency medical attention such as in the case of appendicitis.

answered by A S

Your abdominal cramps could also be due to hyper-acidity or even due to worms or for some other reason. If your pain is getting worse, please get yourself examined from your family doctor or a gastroenterologist.

answered by P P

I have been having cramps in the central part of my stomach for a few days, I thought it was constipation but I am still not sure, I have taken stool softeners but with no real results. The pain is getting worse and I need to