Tuesday, March 19, 2024

How Do You Get Cramps In Your Stomach

Abdominal Pain Treatment And Home Remedies

How to Stop a Stomach Cramp Naturally in just 3 minutes!

The treatment for abdominal pain depends on its cause, and may include:

  • Medications to lower inflammation, prevent acid reflux, or treat ulcers or infection
  • Surgery to treat a problem with an organ

Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen can irritate your stomach and worsen your pain. Donât take them unless a doctor has diagnosed the cause of your belly pain and recommends their use.

Some diet and lifestyle changes may help belly pain caused by gas and indigestion. Here are some things you can try:

  • Eat smaller portions at more frequent meals
  • Eat slowly

How To Relieve Stomach Pain Symptoms

There isnt necessarily a cure for the stomach pain symptoms themselves. When your body is under stress, your stomach tends to hurt based on the acids in your stomach and the foods youve already eaten. If you have stomach pain as a result of an anxiety attack, you may need to wait it out.

Water can help a little, however. So consider sipping cool water. Antacids may also be beneficial in some cases, but if you have stomach pain often, you may not want to depend on antacid treatments.

SUMMARY:

Stomach pain from anxiety can be caused by several stress-related issues, including abdominal tension, digestion issues, and irritable bowel. Although the stomach pain may be caused by anxiety, the acids in the stomach are still very real. There are ways to treat both your stomach discomfort and anxiety.

Was this article helpful?

How Is Abdominal Pain Diagnosed

The cause of abdominal pain is diagnosed based on your symptom history, a physical examination, and testing, if needed. Your doctor is likely to ask you questions about the characteristics of your pain, and whether you have any underlying physical or mental health conditions that could be contributing to your abdominal pain.

Questions from your doctor may address the following aspects of your abdominal pain:

  • Where its located
  • Whether its dull, stabbing, burning, or cramping
  • Whether it comes and goes
  • When you experience or notice it most
  • Whether it radiates outward to other areas of your body
  • How long youve had it
  • Whether any activities or actions seem to make it worse or better

Your doctor may also ask about your overall health history, any recent injuries, and whether you might be pregnant.

  • Blood, urine, or stool tests
  • X-ray of the abdomen
  • Computerized tomography scan of the abdomen
  • Barium enema
  • Endoscopic procedures
  • Electrocardiogram

Also Check: Can You Take Allegra On An Empty Stomach

When Should You See A Doctor For Stomach Cramps

Stomach cramps from everyday causes, like gas, will resolve on their own. However, there are times when you should see a doctor about stomach cramps. It is the safest option to find potentially serious causes and get the correct treatment.

Make an appointment to see your doctor if mild stomach cramping lasts for a few days or is causing concern. See a doctor promptly when:

  • You also have or bloating that does not improve after a couple of days.

  • You are experiencing irregular or prolonged menstrual bleeding.

  • You are experiencing or loss of appetite.

  • You have a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting that persists for several days.

  • You have or or burning with urination.

  • You have , which is a yellowing of the skin and eyes.

or go to your nearest emergency room for stomach cramps when:

  • You are pregnant or could be pregnant.

  • You are unable to pass stool.

  • You are blood or a coffee ground-like material or have bloody stools.

  • You had a recent injury or trauma involving the abdomen.

  • You have or discomfort, shortness of breath, , or arm, neck or .

  • Your abdomen is tender to touch, hard or swollen, or you have severe abdominal pain.

Are There Foods That Reduce Stomach Pain

Why Am I Getting Stomach Cramps?

Anxiety-related stomach pain is not usually the result of your diet , so there arent necessarily any dietary changes that can help reduce stomach pain.

That said, those with panic attacks are more prone to experiencing more severe stomach discomfort, even when no anxiety is present. In other words, when you have panic attacks, its possible to have stomach pain even without a panic attack.

Also, those with anxiety attacks and severe anxiety are prone to whats known as over-sensitization. That means that they are more likely to notice and feel smaller, normal changes in the body, and these can trigger an anxiety attack. So if your diet does contain foods that cause you gas, stomach discomfort, or mild indigestion, it may be best to avoid them because the slight amount of discomfort could feel worse than it should and may trigger a panic attack.

Thats why healthy eating is important in those that get stomach pain with anxiety. Make sure youre getting:

  • Fruits
  • Water/Hydration
  • Whole-Grain Carbohydrates

Also, if you suffer from stress-induced hyperacidity, then it is recommended that you consume dairy products and non-spicy foods. In moderate amounts, over-the-counter antacids may be needed as well.

In addition, if possible, try to avoid eating until youre too full. Those with severe anxiety sometimes interpret the full feeling as pain, and this could trigger a panic attack and further pain.

Read Also: How Can You Lose Weight In Your Stomach Fast

How Do I Take Care Of Myself

You and your healthcare provider should come up with a treatment plan together. Have a prevention plan and a plan for what to do when a muscle spasm hits. Do the following every day:

  • Exercise . If you get nocturnal leg cramps, do some walking before you go to sleep.
  • Stretch. Stretch frequently including before and after you exercise and before you go to sleep.
  • Purchase sturdy shoes.
  • Drink plenty of water each day. Stay away from caffeine and alcohol.
  • Take all prescribed vitamins and medications such as muscle relaxants.
  • Prepare your bed space by keeping a heating pad and massage roller nearby.

Different Types Of Stomach Pain And How To Treat Them

Having a tummy ache is one of the most common human medical experiences. Whether from eating too much junk food as a kid or acquiring some kind of virus, we all know what its like to suddenly be racked with stomach problems. Its also pretty universally understood that not all stomach pain is the same. By considering the type and location and severity of the pain, and by noting any accompanying symptoms, its possible to narrow down the possible causes. Below are 8 different kinds of stomach pain that range from relatively common to relatively rare:

Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Side Fat On Your Stomach

What Causes Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can be caused by many conditions. However, the main causes are infection, abnormal growths, inflammation, obstruction , and intestinal disorders.

Infections in the throat, intestines, and blood can cause bacteria to enter your digestive tract, resulting in abdominal pain. These infections may also cause changes in digestion, such as diarrhea or constipation.

Cramps associated with menstruation are also a potential source of lower abdominal pain, but these are more commonly known to cause pelvic pain.

Other common causes of abdominal pain include:

When Is Stomach Pain Most Likely To Occur

How to Treat & Prevent Stomach Cramps | Stomach Problems

If you have anxiety, stomach pain can occur at any time even when no anxiety is present. However, many people experience stomach pain during panic attacks.

The exact link between an anxiety attack and stomach pain is not clear, other than the fact that during a panic attack, your body is under a considerable amount of stress, and your hormones are often on overdrive. Also, those with anxiety attacks are prone to hyperventilation, which may lead to symptoms that create stomach pain.

Don’t Miss: How To Get Rid Of Stomach Fast

Charlie Horse In Stomach

Charlie horse in stomach, have you ever heard of this term. Now, you might be wondering what is this horse and that too in the stomach. Charlie horse is a term used colloquially to describe any form of muscle spasm. Spasm is the sudden involuntary contraction of a muscle.

Charlie horse or muscle spasm can occur anywhere in our body, including the arms, legs, abdomen, etc. But, if they occur in the stomach or abdomen, they are called Charlie horse in stomach.

In most of the people, having Charlie horse in stomach is not harmful at all, and it can be treated with simple home remedies and Tips. But, in some people, it can indicate a serious underlying disorder especially if the muscle spasms are severe and continuous, and this might need medical attention.

Contents

Charlie horse in stomach Causes:

Charlie horse in stomach can be caused due to spasm of the muscles over the abdomen, or due to spasm of the smooth muscles of the stomach or intestines. Now, let us try to explore the causes of Charlie horse in stomach or stomach muscle spasms or cramps or stomach spasms.

Impaired blood circulation:

All the body parts require an adequate supply of blood to function normally. If there is any impairment or reduction in the supply of blood to the abdominal muscles or to the inner organs like stomach or intestine due to any cause, it can lead to sudden muscle cramps or spasm or Charlie horse in stomach.

Dehydration:
  • Dark colored urine
Straining of muscles:
Gastroenteritis:
Gastroparesis:

What Are The Symptoms Of Muscle Spasms

Muscle spasms can feel like a stitch in the side or be agonizingly painful. You may see a twitch under your skin and it may feel hard to the touch. Spasms are involuntary. The muscles contract and it takes treatment and time for them to relax. They are very common, especially in older adults and athletes.

If the muscle spasm is severe, happens frequently, responds poorly to treatment and is not related to obvious causes, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. The spasms could be related to underlying factors.

Don’t Miss: Can Stomach Cancer Cause Chest Pain

What Are The Earliest Signs Of Pregnancy

Some symptoms to watch for before you miss your period are sore breasts, fatigue, sensitivity to smell, food aversions, nausea, and more frequent urination. Keep in mind, however, that it’s very likely you will have no symptoms.

One study found that 50% of women showed no symptoms at five weeks after conception, 30% had none six weeks after conception, and 10% still didn’t have any at two months after conception!3

Below there are three tables.

  • One is the signs of pregnancy you might experience before you miss your period.
  • The next is the most commonly reported first signs of pregnancy, so you can get a sense of how common these symptoms are.
  • The third shows 14 signs of pregnancy you might experience within the first three weeks after conception to get a better look at some other symptom possibilities.

Alternative Treatments For Stomach Cramps

Is it normal to have cramps during my whole period?

Probiotics are one of the main alternative treatments for overall digestive health. These healthy bacteria are present in yogurt and fermented foods, such as kimchi. Supplements are also available. Using to replace and replenish the bacterial flora in your digestive tract may help reduce gas, bloating and cramping.

Also Check: What Medication Do You Take For Stomach Ulcers

Jody Braverman Cpt Fns Ryt

Exercise is supposed to be good for you, so when it starts causing you abdominal pain it might make you question its value. Side stitches are the most common cause of abdominal pain during a workout. However, muscle cramps, indigestion and a muscle strain can also be to blame. Plus, it’s always possible that sharp pains could be the sign of a more serious condition requiring medical attention.

Video of the Day

Tip

Abdominal pain during a workout could be caused by cramps, digestive issues, side stitches or muscle strain.

When To Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Get medical help immediately if:

  • You have abdominal pain that is very sharp, severe, and sudden.
  • You also have pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder.
  • Youre vomiting blood, have bloody diarrhea, or have black, tarry stools
  • You have a high fever.
  • Youre having difficulty breathing.
  • You develop consistent nausea and/or vomiting.
  • Your abdomen is stiff, hard, and tender to the touch.
  • You cant move your bowels, especially if youre also vomiting

Also Check: What Is H Pylori Stomach Infection

How Can I Treat Abdominal Pain

If you have abdominal pain, keeping warm and placing a heat pack or hot water bottle on your stomach may help.

If your abdominal pain does not require you to stop eating and drinking, stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of clear, non-alcoholic fluids. If you have a medical condition that restricts your fluid intake, check with your doctor about how much fluid you can have.

Eat small meals and – foods such as rice, dry toast or bananas. Avoid spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine until 48 hours after the pain has gone away.

Several medicines can help if you have non-acute abdominal pain, including:

  • paracetamol to ease the pain
  • charcoal tablets or similar for wind pain
  • medicines to ease spasms
  • medicines to stop diarrhoea

Avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen and naproxen since these can irritate your stomach. A pharmacist can advise you about the most appropriate medicine for your abdominal pain.

In more serious cases, the treatment recommended will depend on the cause and severity of the abdominal pain, and how long you have had it. Treatment may include following a particular diet in the long term getting more exercise taking medicines or having surgery.

What Questions Should I Ask My Healthcare Provider About Muscle Spasms

How to Prevent Abdominal Muscle Cramps
  • Do you recommend that I see a physical therapist, sleep specialist, massage therapist or other specialist?
  • Do you think that my muscle spasms are a symptom of a disease?
  • Can you show me the best exercises I can do to stretch my muscles?
  • How can I help my child when they have a muscle spasm?
  • Can you show me the best massage techniques I can use to help with my muscle spasms?

Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Stomach Inflammation Fast

How Do I Know If Its Anxiety And Not An Ulcer

Its not uncommon to find yourself concerned that your struggle with stomach pain is not from anxiety or stress at all. For example, you may find yourself concerned that instead of anxiety, what you are really struggling with is an ulcer.

Only a doctor can diagnose whether or not your pain is from an ulcer, but there are some clues. The clearest signal is if you have any blood in your stool or acid burps . Thats often a clear sign of an ulcer. Also, if the pain or discomfort tends to occur after eating and isnt related to a similar condition, GERD , its possible you may have an ulcer.

However, this is complicated by the fact that ulcers can be caused by long-term stress and anxiety, as they stimulate the production of extra stomach acid. This excess acid in the stomach breaks down the gastric or intestinal lining and cause open wounds that may harm your health.

How To Stop Stomach Cramps & Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis refers to stomach inflammation brought on by a virus, bacterial invasion or an allergy 1. With this inflammation comes the risk of mild to severe stomach cramps that leave you doubled over and reaching for relief. Accompanied by nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, treating this condition properly may stop these symptoms from getting worse. Always consult your physician if cramping worsens despite treatment, or if it interferes with your daily activities.

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Avoid consuming solid food or liquids for up to two hours to allow your stomach to settle and cramping to subside. MayoClinic.com notes that you may resume fluid intake of clear liquids only, such as water or sports drinks, after two hours. Avoid caffeinated drinks and acidic fruit juices.

Eat only soft foods such as gelatin, incorporating crackers and dry toast as your discomfort subsides, suggests KidsHealth.org. Foods containing milk may worsen cramps, so steer clear of puddings and ice cream. Resume your normal eating habits once your cramping and nausea are completely gone.

Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory to ease stomach cramping. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen decrease swelling and pain.

Read Also: What Causes Severe Upper Stomach Pain

Wide Range Of Symptoms

One of the more surprising issues with some types of anxiety disorder is the way that they change sensations in our body. For example, for many, feeling full is a nice feeling. However, it can lead to a variety of natural body sensations, including:

  • Feeling lightheaded
  • Slight stomach discomfort
  • Fatigue

In those without anxiety, these are natural. In people suffering from some degree of anxiety, those sensations feel much more pronounced and can trigger a full-blown panic attack.

How To Get Rid Of Stomach Cramps & Aches

Leg Cramps During Pregnancy

There are many possible causes of stomach cramps and they can affect or emanate from your digestive organs, your appendix, your aorta, your kidneys, or your spleen, or they can originate from an infection elsewhere in your body. Stomach cramps are painful but it is possible to relieve them using home remedies easily and effectively.

Also Check: Is The Stomach Flu Going Around Now

Whats The Difference Between Period Cramps And Implantation Cramps

Implantation cramping may be an early sign of pregnancy. Understanding the causes and key differences between implantation cramps and period cramps will help people to recognize them. Implantation cramping is a type of pain sometimes experienced when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus.

When To Seek Immediate Medical Help

Severe abdominal pain is a greater cause for concern. If it starts suddenly and unexpectedly, and persists, it should be regarded as a medical emergency, especially if the pain is concentrated in a particular area.

or go to your nearest hospital emergency department if this is the case.

If you feel pain in the area around your ribs, see the section on chest pain.

Also Check: Why My Stomach Gets Big After I Eat

Popular Articles
Related news