Stomach cramps aren't usually a sign of a serious illness, although they can be very painful. The cramps are commonly called stomach cramps, but can occur in abdominal muscles and organs, including the stomach and intestines. Determining the cause of your cramps will help you choose an appropriate treatment to relieve pain and other symptoms associated with cramping.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, causes cramping of the gastrointestinal tract due to a virus or a parasitic or bacterial infection. Viral gastroenteritis is responsible for the majority of gastroenteritis outbreaks in developed countries, while contaminated food or water is more likely to cause outbreaks in developing countries, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The large intestine is unable to retain fluids when it is infected, which results in loose, watery feces. In addition to cramping, you may experience fever, vomiting, sweating, muscle aches, nausea, weight loss and stiff joints. While most cases of gastroenteritis resolve without medical treatment, you may need treatment with antibiotics or other medications if your illness is caused by a bacterial or parasitic infection.
Anxiety
Stomach cramps aren't always a sign of an illness but can occur if you've been feeling particularly nervous or anxious. Worrying about your problems or fears can cause diarrhea and nausea, in addition to cramps. You may also feel tired, jumpy and may notice muscle aches and trouble sleeping. Exercising, practicing relaxation techniques and talking to friends or mental health professionals about your anxiety can help reduce stomach cramps.
Lactose Intolerance
If you experience stomach cramps after you eat or drink food or beverages containing dairy products, you may have lactose intolerance. The problem occurs due to difficulty digesting lactose, a type of sugar in milk products. The problem can occur after you drink milk or eat ice cream, yogurt, cheese or butter. Eating products that contain milk, milk by-products, whey or lactose can also cause stomach cramps. Other symptoms of lactose intolerance may include gas, bloating, nausea and diarrhea. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports that Hispanics, American Indians and people whose ancestors were from southern Europe, Asia, Africa are more likely to be lactose intolerant. Avoiding problem foods or taking over-the-counter medication that helps you digest milk products more easily can help relieve symptoms.
Running
Abdominal cramps can be a problem if you run for exercise. Cramps occur as a result of very vigorous breathing and are thought to be related to decreased oxygen supply to abdominal wall muscles, according to Rice University. Cramping also occurs in the intestines and may be related to dehydration caused by sweating. Drinking fluids every 10 to 15 minutes while you run can help you prevent dehydration and cramping.
