Do you find yourself bending over in pain after eating your meal because of stomach cramps? They can be unbearable. If you are prone to stomach cramps, you will want to know what they are and what causes them. Of course, you will need ways to prevent them.
What are stomach cramps?
A stomach cramp refers to a dull ache in the abdominal area. It doesn’t last long most of the time and isn’t severe. If it is, there is some cause for concern. Sudden and unexpected stomach cramps are medical emergencies, especially if they happen in a particular area.
If you have stomach cramps and feel bloated after eating a meal, there could be wind trapped in your abdominal area. Pharmacists would recommend over-the-counter drugs like Buscopan and Mebeverine.
Do your stomach cramps come with diarrhea? You may have Gastroenteritis. There may be an infection in your abdominal area, which should get better with medication. Sudden, sharp pain in a specific area of your abdomen is alarming, and you should seek immediate medical attention. It could signal appendicitis or other conditions, which we will discuss in the section on causes.
What causes stomach cramps after eating?
Stomach cramps aren’t usually a cause for alarm, but this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be alert to the possibility that the symptoms could signal something serious. Keep your mind open to these causes, and seek medical attention when necessary.
1. Gastroenteritis
First of all is Gastroenteritis, which refers to a stomach pain caused by infection. It can be so severe that it forces a person to bend over in pain. Rice and bananas usually relieve the symptoms. This study found that rice does have the power to ease the stomach flu.
2. Constipation
Constipation is a well-known cause of abdominal pain. Medical professionals attribute it to lifestyle causes. Experts have found that adjusting meal size can somewhat relieve it.
3. Indigestion
Indigestion is a minor health issue but can trigger the stomach pain. The medical term for it is Dyspepsia. It is curable if you chew your food properly.
4. Appendicitis
Appendicitis is one of the more causes of stomach pain. It is quick and sharp; anyone who suffers from it should get medical help immediately. It is treatable if assistance arrives at an early stage.
5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
This condition can be long-term, and it refers to the inflammation of the gut. It includes other diseases, such as Chron’s Disease, which affects the part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus, and Ulcerative Colitis, which refers to ulcers in the colon.
6. Urinary Tract Infection
This infection, of course, affects the urinary tract. Doctors call it a bladder infection when it hits the upper section and a kidney infection when it permeates the lower part.
7. Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is another condition that can cause stomach cramps. Otherwise known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), it can involve a taste of acid in the mouth. Obesity, pregnancy and taking some medicines can trigger the condition.
Natural Ways to Relieve Them
Do you hate medication? Take heart. There are natural ways to stop your abdominals from cramping. They aren’t miracle cures but will help to soothe the dull ache.
1. Ginger
First of all is ginger, which is anti-inflammatory and aids digestion. Therefore, it stops stomach pains. According to this study, it eases nausea and other digestive issues. If you find fresh ginger hard on the palate (it’s spicy), drink ginger tea or take ginger supplements. You may enjoy natural ginger sodas as well.
2. Peppermint
There’s also peppermint, which works quite quickly to settle the tummy. Researchers from the University of Adelaide have shown that it relieves Irritable Bowel Syndrome. They discovered that it has an anti-pain channel called TRPM8. This compound stops the stings caused by spices like mustard and chili. Consequently, it aids digestion.
3. Licorice
Licorice can relieve Peptic Ulcers; According to this study, it eliminates the bacterial infection. You can find Licorice in many teas that relieve digestion. It can increase blood pressure, but only in large amounts.
4. Chamomile
Chamomile tea can soothe a terrible stomachache. If you wish to brew it, you can find Chamomile flowers in many medicine stores. Adding lemon can help you ease your tummy further. According to this study, it prevents gastrointestinal disorders.
5. Saltwater
Saltwater not only soothes a sore throat but also relieves an upset stomach. All you need to do is combine a teaspoon of it with a cup of water. Your throat and stomach will feel the relief.
6. Warm Rice Compress
This compress will serve you well if you don’t have a heating pad. Fill a clean sock with uncooked rice and microwave it for about a minute. It relieves your upset stomach and sore muscles.
7. Aloe Vera Juice
A glass of aloe vera juice can get your faulty gastrointestinal tract on track. It treats different intestinal issues. This study shows that it’s a useful treatment for digestive problems.
8. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural cleanser and antiseptic. It can also assist with digestion. Just put a few teaspoons of it in water. ACV is an efficient remedy for period cramps as well.
In all, you don’t have to search for a medication to alleviate your abdominal pains. If eating certain foods causes your stomach cramps, these natural remedies will help.