Stomach cramps and nausea are common symptoms that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. In most cases, stomach cramps and nausea occur as a result of minor digestive problems or common viral infections that clear up quickly. Occasionally, stomach cramps and nausea can signify a more serious condition that may require treatment.
Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis, more commonly referred to as the stomach flu, is a viral infection that occurs in the intestines as a result of ingesting contaminated food or water. Rotovirus is the virus that causes most cases of viral gastroenteritis, according to MayoClinic.com. Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis include stomach cramps, pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches and a low fever. There is no treatment for viral gastroenteritis, since viruses cannot be effectively treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis are alleviated when the viral infection goes away on its own. It is important to stay hydrated while symptoms persist to avoid dehydration.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard masses that form in the kidneys as a result of crystals that separate from the urine. In normal cases, substances in the urine prevent crystals from forming. In those who are susceptible to kidney stones, those substances are diminished or obsolete. It is unclear what makes some people more prone to developing kidney stones, but it is believed to be related to genetics or prior infections, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Symptoms of kidney stones include cramping pain in the stomach and lower back, nausea and vomiting. If the kidney stone moves close to the ureter, the structure that allows urine to pass, pain may be felt during urination. Most kidney stones are passed naturally with an increase in water intake. In some cases, medications may be used to help dissolve stones. If a stone is too large to pass, surgery may be needed to remove it, but this is rare.
Intestinal Obstruction
An intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage in the bowel that prevents contents from moving through normally. An intestinal obstruction may be mechanical, which means it is caused by a physical blockage, or a paralytic ileus, which means the intestines do not function properly. Common mechanical obstructions include abnormal tissue growth, scar tissue, gallstones, hernias or a twist in the intestines. A paralytic ileus may be the result of chemical imbalances, surgery complications, interrupted blood flow, kidney disease or lung disease, according to Medline Plus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, breath odor and constipation. An intestinal obstruction usually can be resolved with the insertion of a tube through the nose and into the stomach. This tube relieves pressure and bloating and alleviates nausea. If the intestinal obstruction is not cured with this method, surgery may be needed to correct the blockage.
