Conditions and diseases affecting the stomach, an organ of the digestive system, can cause pains and cramps. Other organs found in the abdominal region also produce symptoms that many people may describe as stomach pain, but is more accurately abdominal pain. These organs include the other organs of the digestive system, such as the small intestine, large intestine, liver and gallbladder.
Intestinal Obstruction
An obstruction in the small or large intestine inhibits the passage of food and fluids. Usually caused by a mechanical condition in adults, such as a hernia or tumor, the obstruction may be partial or complete. The inability of food to pass through the digestive tract results in a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain and cramping that may begin as intermittent and escalate to serious if not treated, according to MayoClinic.com.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome causes abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, bloating and constipation. Although this disorder causes a great deal of pain and distress, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, it does not cause permanent damage to the intestines. The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not fully understood, but the sensitivity of the intestines to certain foods and stress may play a role.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. Lactose intolerance occurs because of a deficiency in the level of lactase, an enzyme produced in the small intestine. Lactase functions to break down lactose into a simple sugar called galactose, which the digestive tract can then absorb. Lactose intolerance develops over time, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, usually producing symptoms in adulthood. Symptoms include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea and nausea.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning, also known as food-borne illness, occurs in response to ingesting food or drink products contaminated with bacteria. Common bacteria that cause food poisoning include Clostridium botulinum, Campylobacter jejuni, E. coli, Salmonella and Shigella. The most common symptoms include stomach pain, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, headache and weakness.
Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis, inflammation of the gallbladder, is usually caused by the presence of gallstones, according to information provided by MedLine Plus. Inflammation causes bile to build up within the gallbladder, resulting in pressure and often leading to a bacterial infection. The symptoms include abdominal pain felt as sharp, cramping or dull pains. The pain often comes and goes and can also be felt in the back or the right shoulder blade.
