Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea

Cramps is a painful sensation, which is caused by contractions of the muscles. A person can suffer from different kinds of cramps. The most common kinds of cramps are the abdominal cramps and the cramps in the legs. The abdominal cramps, also known as stomach cramps, normally last for a few seconds to a few minutes. In some cases, the abdominal cramps can also be accompanied by increased frequency of bowel movement. One should not neglect abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Abdominal cramps accompanied by diarrhea point towards an underlying digestive problem. More often than not, it is seen that one gets abdominal cramps followed by diarrhea after eating, especially outside. Let's see what gives rise to this condition.

Cause of Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea

It can start at any point of time during the day. This condition is most commonly seen in the morning after waking up. It is a clear sign of digestive disorder. It hints to irritation of the colon. Diarrhea is the method employed by the body to throw out unwanted substances from the body. If this condition is observed during pregnancy, it is important to have yourself checked by a health care professional and the condition should not be neglected. After examination, the health care professional will be in a better position to treat the condition.

Food Poisoning
Eating food prepared in unhygienic conditions can cause this condition after eating. If the food has been left open after it has been cooked, it can cause upset stomach along with cramps. If the food consumed is not well cooked, it can also give rise to the condition. Allergy towards a particular food can also cause food poisoning.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
One of the causes of stomach cramps and diarrhea is irritable bowel syndrome. It is an intestinal problem, where the person will suffer from severe stomach cramps and increased bowel movements. More than 20% of people all around the world are known to suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. In this condition, the large intestine is affected. The most common causes of this condition are overeating, excess consumption of alcohol, caffeine, etc.

Diverticulitis
In this condition, there are small pouches which are formed along the large intestine. When an impact is caused to these pouches, they can get inflamed. The most common symptoms of diverticulitis are cramps in the abdomen and diarrhea.

Infections
Different kinds of infections can give rise to different kinds of condition. One of the commonly seen infections is salmonella poisoning. The symptoms are abdominal cramps, diarrhea and in some cases also vomiting. Different parasitic infections can cause stomach cramps, pain and diarrhea.

Colon Cancer
Diarrhea accompanied by abdominal cramps is also an indicator of colon cancer. The cancerous growth in the colon causes chronic diarrhea along with abdominal pain. When the tumor is small in size, the person may not see the symptoms. However, when the tumor grows, the person can also suffer from bloody diarrhea, that is caused due to rectal bleeding.

Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease causes inflammation of the digestive tract. When the digestive tract is inflamed, it gives rise to cramping feeling in the abdomen and diarrhea. The severity of the condition depends on, which part of the digestive disease is affected by the condition. In severe cases of Crohn's disease, small sores on the outer side of the digestive track can be formed. If the condition is not treated in time, the disease can also spread to the inner wall as well.

Treating Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea

Depending on the exact cause of the problem, the line of treatment can be decided. However, there are some measures, which can help in alleviating the condition. The first step is consume sufficient quantities of water. If you drink less quantities of water, make sure you step up your water consumption. The next step is to reduce the consumption of coffee and cola, as they can aggravate the condition. Lactose consumption should be kept to a minimum. You can get checked for lactose intolerance.

If cramps and diarrhea continues for a long time, then the condition should not be neglected and have it looked at by your health care provider. There can be a health condition, which is causing the condition. However, till you go to your health care professional make it a point to keep yourself well hydrated.