How to Get Rid of Stomach Cramps?
There are a number of causes for what we commonly call stomach cramps. The cause may be something as “simple” some food just eaten. This can occur if we over eat and the stomach muscles cause us pain because they are overtaxed. This occurs because the stomach and intestines are having difficulty processing the large volume of food. So, one of the best ways to avoid stomach cramps is to eat a bit less.
There are other causes for stomach cramps as well. If you can rule out overeating and haven’t eaten something spicy enough to cause stomach troubles, you’ll have to look deeper for a cause. Some people get stomach cramps from dairy products because their body doesn’t tolerate the particular sugar found in milk and cream (lactose). It’s possible that the food we eat wasn’t cooked properly or contained some harmful bacteria. Women may get cramps during their regular menstrual cycle. We might also have some type of infection that causes the stomach muscles to spasm and cramp.
No More Cramps
There may be no way to prevent 100 percent of stomach cramps but there are ways to get rid of them or reduce the pain. If you develop stomach cramps or pain from eating try a little baking soda. This is the age-old bicarbonate of soda treatment that helps balance the acid level in our systems. Stomach muscles may cramp in response to a higher-than-normal level of acid.
Some people also find relief in a bottle – a bottle of “white” soda such as Sprite or 7-Up. These drinks may help reduce cramps or mild indigestion. But don’t drink them when the liquid is too cold. This may cause cramps rather than relieve them. Carbonation in these soft drinks may help stomach muscles stop cramping.
Don’t hesitate to try a retail remedy. Several products are designed to relieve stomach ailments. These include Milk of Magnesia and Pepto-Bismol. Some people simply need relief from too much acid in the stomach. However, you should be careful with these, as they might spur an allergic reaction.
Other Causes
You may suffer stomach cramps from exercise, especially if your breathing is irregular and shallow during a period of running. Mild stretching and massage should help relieve some of these symptoms, but you shouldn’t stop moving altogether when you get cramps from this activity. Keep walking and moving around. If you don’t you could be contributing to muscle cramps, not only in the stomach but in other places in your body.
Two other methods that will help with stomach cramps are: applying heat to the affected area and taking mild painkillers. An electric heating pad will go a long way toward relaxing muscles. Some over-the-counter painkillers can reduce the pain but won’t necessarily help stop the cramps. If the cramping continues and causes severe pain, you should see your doctor right away. He or she can help you discover the source of your stomach cramps then give you some ideas for treatment.
Category: Diseases & Conditions, Health