Stomach cramps refer to a gnawing or spasmodic-like pain that can be a sign of an underlying gastrointestinal problem. Sometimes, infections or hormone problems can lead to this type of abdominal cramping. Fortunately, the causes of abdominal cramping have specific management options.
Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis refers to a type of gastrointestinal infection that is associated with such symptoms as abdominal cramping, vomiting, watery diarrhea, a fever and chills. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) also says that viral gastroenteritis can cause a headache.
The causes of viral gastroenteritis include certain viruses such as the rotavirus, adenovirus, astrovirus and caliciviruses.
Treating viral gastroenteritis involves refraining from eating for a few hours, sucking on ice chips, resting and rehydrating. Sometimes receiving intravenous fluids and hospitalization may be necessary to manage viral gastroenteritis.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that strikes the colon, also known as the large intestine. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include abdominal cramps, bloating, gas (flatulence), diarrhea or constipation and mucus in the stool.
The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown but its triggers can include chocolate, alcohol, milk, stress, hormonal changes and such illnesses as infectious diarrhea.
Treating irritable bowel syndrome involves taking such fiber supplements as psyllium, antidepressants and antibiotic medications. Anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide, lubiprostone and alosetron are just some other medications used to manage irritable bowel syndrome.
Miscarriage
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) says that a miscarriage, also called a spontaneous abortion, refers to loss of a fetus prior to the 20th week of pregnancy.
A miscarriage can be due to hormonal problems, infection, immune system problems or uncontrolled diabetes. Its risk factors include being older than 35 and having a history of miscarriages.
Managing miscarriages involves surgery and taking such medications as misoprostol.
Diverticulitis
The NIH says that diverticulitis refers to the swelling of a small pouch on the intestinal wall. Specific symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal cramps, fever, chills, nausea, weight loss and vomiting.
Risk factors for developing diverticulitis include being of old age and consuming a diet low in fiber.
Surgery may be necessary to remove any infection. Also, consuming foods containing high fiber such as psyllium can help reduce the symptoms of diverticulitis.
