Cramping pain in the stomach is a common symptom that is usually a result of gas and bloating and in the majority of cases does not signal a serious problem. When cramping pain in the stomach occurs frequently, lasts more than 24 hours or is accompanied by a fever, it may be a sign of an underlying condition, according to Medline Plus. The pain in the stomach can range in intensity from mild to severe, but intensity is not indicative of the seriousness of the condition.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition characterized by an increase in length and strength of muscle contractions in the large intestine. When the contractions are increased, food is forced through the intestines more quickly and doesn't have time to properly digest. This results in cramping pain, bloating and gas in the abdomen. Other symptoms include alternations between constipation and diarrhea and mucus in the stool. The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown, but a number of triggers have been determined. These triggers dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, increased stress, hormones and other illnesses, according to Mayo Clinic. Since the cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Treatment methods include fiber supplements, anti-diarrheal medication and antidepressants, which help reduce intestinal contractions. Trigger foods should also be avoided.
Intestinal Obstruction
An intestinal obstruction is a partial or full blockage in the bowel that inhibits or prevents the passage of contents through the intestine. The blockage may be mechanical, which means that something is physically blocking the intestine, or it may be a result of improper intestinal function. Possible mechanical blockages include abnormal tissue growth, hernia, gallstones or a twisted intestine. Improper intestinal function can be caused by chemical imbalances, decreased blood supply or injury to the abdominal area, according to Medline Plus. Symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include cramping pain in the abdomen, gas, abdominal fullness, constipation, diarrhea and vomiting. To relieve some symptoms, a tube may be placed down the throat and into the abdomen to release contents. Surgery is usually needed to fully correct the obstruction.
Diverticulitis
A number of people have small pouches in the lining of the large intestine that bulge when the areas become weak. These pouches are called diverticula. When the pouches become inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. The exact cause of diverticulitis is unknown, but the most common theory is that the condition occurs as a result of following a low-fiber diet, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The most common symptom of diverticulitis is abdominal pain. Other symptoms include cramps, nausea, vomiting, chills, tenderness in the abdomen and fever. Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of symptoms. Mild cases of diverticulitis are usually treated with a combination of a liquid diet, bed rest, antibiotics and pain relievers. More severe cases usually require hospitalization, during which food and drink are not allowed and antibiotics are given intravenously.
