The body consists of many organs from which abdominal pain can originate. Usually it's brought on by an abrupt muscle contraction, or even an involuntary spasm will create pains that have a stabbing sensation, such as cramps. The exact cause is not always obvious when cramps are brought on by muscle spasms deep within the body. In some cases, the pain may resemble that of other conditions. This is particularly true when abdominal cramps are associated with ailments such as food poisoning, appendicitis, diverticulitis and menstrual cramps.
Prevalence
In general, many people have had stomach cramping for one reason or another. In the instance of salmonella food poisoning, there have been millions of cases reported each year; it is known as one of the most common food-borne illnesses in America. Abdominal cramps, diarrhea and vomiting are common symptoms of acute food poisoning. According to PharmiWeb.com, evidence of a survey shows 25 percent of the population in the entire world suffers from common and distressing ailments of severe abdominal cramping and pain.
Causes
Serious abdominal cramping can result from minor conditions, such as a stomach virus or gas. On the other hand, according to MedlinePlus, little pain or no pain at all can be associated with dangerous conditions, such as appendicitis and colon cancer. Abdominal pain may also show up in a generalized way, in most of the stomach area. Usually, this is caused by indigestion, gas or a stomach virus. Pain that progresses, becoming more intense, may indicate intestinal blockage.
Risk Factors
A person's age, health condition and the amount of food eaten determines if that person will become ill after consuming contaminated food. A high-risk group is elderly adults. As people age, their immune systems don't respond as fast and as effectively to harmful organisms. Pregnant women are another high-risk group; during pregnancy metabolic changes and abnormal circulation make them more susceptible to food poisoning. Infants and young children have not fully developed their immune systems, so they are also susceptible to stomach ailments.
Signs and Symptoms
Sudden abdominal pain, tenderness, vomiting, fever and stiffness in the lower-right abdomen suggest a case of appendicitis. According to FormulaMedical.com, cramps related to the menstrual cycle are among the most common types of stomach pain caused by overproduction of prostaglandins, which are hormonal-like substances that create inflammation. Signs that warrant more concern consist of pain or cramping that occurs frequently, accompanied by fever, and lasting longer than 24 hours.
Treatment
According to Medline Plus, sipping water or other liquids that are clear can soothe mild stomach cramping. Solid food should not be eaten for a few hours. Waiting at least 6 hours before eating is recommended if there is vomiting with stomach cramping. Some people find relief in taking antacids, particularly if indigestion or heartburn is present. H2 blockers such as Tagamet, Pepcid or Zantac are other over-the-counter remedies. For menstrual cramps, according to Formula Medical Group, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs block prostaglandins, relieving stomach cramping in up to 90 percent of cases.
