Muscle Spasms in Stomach

Muscle spasms are the sudden and involuntary contraction of the muscles. It is painful and often occurs when a person is unaware. There are several types of muscle spasms and various causes associated with it. It should also be remembered that people of any age group can be affected by muscle spasms. Muscle spasms in neck and stomach should not be ignored as their cause can underlie more serious conditions. Here we will see more on muscle spasms in stomach.

Muscle Spasms in Stomach Area

The sudden cramping in the stomach or abdominal area is the painful contraction of the muscles that help in passing of food in the stomach. The spasms experienced in stomach muscles is very painful and hence, the doctor should be consulted immediately. One must remember that muscle spasms in stomach is a serious condition and should not ignore it. Let us have a look at the causes of muscle spasms in stomach. Read more on muscle spasms.

Causes of Muscle Spasms in Stomach

Muscle spasms in stomach occurs due to acute illnesses related to digestion of food in the body. The following are the major but common causes of muscle spasms in abdomen or stomach.

Stomach Flu: Stomach flu or gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and the intestine caused by certain viruses or bacteria. Intake of toxins through food or medications can also result in stomach flu. It is more commonly observed in children and infants than in adults. Muscle spasms in stomach is a major symptom of gastroenteritis or stomach flu. Read more on stomach flu.

Colic: Colic is the acute or severe abdominal pain that begins and ends abruptly. It is most commonly seen in infants and excessive crying is the most common symptom of colic. Sometimes, colic is also accompanied by muscle spasms in stomach. If a healthy baby is suddenly found to be crying excessively without observable reason, it can be a sign of colic.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder where a person experiences change in bowel habits accompanied with discomfort in most of the cases. It is a chronic case and the prominent symptoms are either diarrhea or constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome can also cause muscle spasms in stomach which is very painful. Read more on irritable bowel syndrome.

Apart from the above mentioned disorders, indigestion, food poisoning, constipation and diarrhea can also cause muscle spasms in stomach area.

Muscle Spasms in Stomach During Pregnancy

As early signs of pregnancy, some women experience muscle spasms in lower stomach. This cramping is similar to the muscle cramps experienced during menstruation. Although it is not a prominent symptom, it is observed in most women during pregnancy. A woman may even face digestive problems during pregnancy which will result in stomach pain. This is a common problem faced by most of the women.

Treatment of Muscle Spasms in Stomach

Gastroenteritis, although a fatal disease, can be treated with antibiotics. As dehydration due to diarrhea is observed during gastroenteritis, one needs to rehydrate the body with water and electrolytes. Irritable bowel syndrome can be gradually controlled with medications, laxatives and fibrous diet. Sometimes, alternative therapies like acupuncture or psychotherapy can also be recommended to cure irritable bowel syndrome.

Colic, on the other hand, is said to recover on its own. There is no specific treatment or cure meant particularly for colic. Usually no medications are prescribed for colic but sometimes, homeopathic medicines can be used for treating colic. Apart from medications, a healthy and balanced diet also plays an important role in preventing muscle spasms in stomach.

One must remember that all the diseases causing muscle spasms in stomach can be treated. One just needs to be look out for the symptoms and get treated soon.