Most people have experienced stomach cramps at some point. These cramps can cause pain anywhere between the chest and the groin with varying symptoms. Cramps may localize to certain areas of the stomach or cause generalized pain all around. Many conditions can cause stomach cramps and risk factors may include anything from age to underlying medical conditions. The treatment for stomach cramps usually depends on the cause and how often symptoms occur.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose and is a frequent cause of stomach cramping. Lactose is a sugar found in milk products, and those who experience lactose intolerance have deficiencies in lactase enzyme. These enzymes produce by the cell linings in the small intestines and assist in breaking down lactose for absorption into the bloodstream. New York Times Health reports that approximately 30 million Americans have some amount of lactose intolerance by age 20 and the condition is common in African-Americans. The most common symptoms of lactose intolerance include abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, diarrhea and gas. Removing milk products from the diet can help to relieve symptoms and some medications can assist in treating the problem.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a very common gastrointestinal disorder. The disorder affects the large intestines and causes food to pass rather quickly through the intestines, resulting in pain and gas. IBS can be very uncomfortable and the main symptoms involve cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. Up to 20 percent of U.S. adults have IBS symptoms and women, people younger than 50 and those with a family history of IBS are more likely to develop the disorder, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. In many cases, an individual can control the disorder by managing diet and simple lifestyle changes.
Appendicitis
When stomach cramping causes persistent and sudden pain, it may result from appendicitis. The condition is a painful swelling and infection of the appendix. The appendix is a small pouch that extends off the large intestines and at the lower right of the abdomen. Appendicitis produces from obstructions of the appendiceal lumen, which is the inside of the appendix. Obstruction may result from trauma to the abdomen, parasites, disease, infection and a number of other conditions. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse calls abdominal pain the main symptom of appendicitis and the symptom usually occurs suddenly, begins near the belly and then moves left to right and gets worse with moving. Other symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, low fever and abdominal swelling.
