Abdominal cramping is a common symptom that can have a variety of causes. In most cases, abdominal cramps are not serious and occur as a result of the gas and bloating associated with digestive diseases or intestinal infections. Occasionally, abdominal cramping can signify more serious conditions that can lead to further complications.
Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Although commonly referred to as the stomach flu, viral gastroenteritis is not caused by the influenza virus, but rather rotaviruses, noroviruses and adenoviruses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The viruses are contracted from eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis usually last for one to 10 days and include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache and fever. Cases of viral gastroenteritis usually are allowed to run their course, and treatment is not necessary. It is important, however,increase fluid consumption while symptoms persist.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by the chronic inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract. The chronic inflammation leads to abdominal cramps, diarrhea, blood in the stool, ulcers, reduced appetite and weight loss. Symptoms usually occur in flares, with periods of remission that alternate with the presence of symptoms. The exact cause of Crohn's disease is unknown, but it is believed to be a result of an abnormal immune response that causes antibodies to attack cells in the digestive tract, according to MayoClinic.com. Treatment for Crohn's disease can be difficult since the cause of the disease is unknown. A combination of medications, such as anti-inflammatories, immunosuppressants and antibiotics, can usually alleviate symptoms.
Intestinal Obstruction
An intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the intestinal tract that prevents the passage of intestinal contents. There are two types of intestinal obstructions: mechanical and pseuo-obstructions. A mechanical obstruction occurs because of a physical blockage in the intestine, such as a tumor or a hernia. A pseudo-obstruction occurs when the intestines do not work properly, but there is no physical obstruction. Symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include abdominal cramps, abdominal fullness, gas, breath odor, constipation, diarrhea and vomiting. Most intestinal obstructions can be treated with the insertion of a nasogastric tube, which is a tube that extends from the nose into the stomach and releases air and pressure. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the cause of the obstruction.
