Stomach cramps: causes, symptoms and remedies

Stomach cramps are a discomfort felt in the upper part of the abdomen. It is a common sensation of discomfort that can affect people of all ages and that, in several cases, hides underlying problems. To deal with stomach cramps, it is advisable to identify the causes, analyze the symptoms and assess the consequences. This will make it easier to find natural remedies and specific medications to deal with this bothersome problem. Where the doctor considers it appropriate, the necessary diagnostic tests should be carried out. This is especially the case when the symptoms are persistent and last a long time.

Causes of stomach cramps

Stomach cramps can have several causes. Among them are existing conditions, as well as wrong habits or emotional states that cause problems of various kinds in our body.

• Excessive consumption of fatty or spicy foods
• Gastritis or gastric ulcers
• Indigestion or excess gas
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Food intolerances
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Stress and anxiety

The symptoms

There are several symptoms behind what we generally call stomach cramps. They show up in different ways, more or less severe. They should certainly not be underestimated. They are: 

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Intermittent or persistent abdominal pain
• Bloating and gas
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling of fullness or heaviness

The consequences

Stomach cramps can lead to consequences. If it is not a one-off episode and the cramps persist, it is advisable to consult a doctor. The consequences can be different and can include:

• Dehydration
• Malnutrition
• Worsening of quality of life
• Unintentional weight loss

Natural remedies for stomach cramps

At the first signs, you can rely on natural remedies, especially when the episodes are sporadic. Stomach cramps can be eased with a few rules:

• Drink hot water with lemon (if you are sure you do not have reflux or gastritis)
• Apply a hot water bottle to the abdomen
• Drink infusions of chamomile, peppermint or ginger (again, only if you do not have reflux)
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga
• Follow a balanced diet, avoiding fatty, spicy and hard-to-digest foods

Specific medications

When the symptoms are persistent or severe, the doctor can prescribe specific medications. It is important not to self-medicate until the real cause of the stomach cramps is known. The appropriate medications that the doctor might recommend are:

• Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), to reduce the production of stomach acid
• Antiemetics, to control nausea and vomiting
• Antispasmodics, to relieve muscle tension in the intestine
• Probiotics, to restore the balance of the intestinal flora

All diagnostic tests at Nefrocenter Lab and Nefrocenter Diagnostica

When stomach cramps persist despite natural remedies or specific medications prescribed by the doctor, it is important to investigate further with diagnostic tests. The following may be needed: 

• Blood tests 
• Stool tests
• Tests for food intolerances
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Colonoscopy, including virtual colonoscopy (details of the test at Nefrocenter Diagnostica) 

Given the symptoms, when they persist it is advisable to see your general practitioner (GP) or a gastroenterologist. It is essential to identify the causes of stomach cramps which, if not treated properly, can lead to complications that can even be serious, depending on the nature of the symptoms. 

Treatments, therapies and specialists in Roma at RAH, follow the link:
https://www.rah.it