Get Relief from Cramping
Abdominal cramps are involuntary spasms of the stomach muscles that can be very painful. Abdominal cramps can be caused by menstruation; digestion, as food moves into the stomach and intestines; food poisoning; gastritis, or a stomach lining infection; anxiety and stress. If you are suffering from abdominal cramps, there are a few things you can do to calm your stomach and provide relief in your stomach area.
Heat Therapy
Heat has been known to calm and provide relief for abdominal cramps. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle in the area that is most painful. You can purchase an electric heating pad at your local drugstore or department store. If you must be up and around, you can purchase portable heating pads at your local drugstore that stick directly on the skin and can be used for up to eight hours. Take a warm bath as often as needed, but continue to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
Over-the-counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications can be used to manage the pain associated with abdominal cramps if necessary. You can purchase these painkillers at your local drugstore or grocery store, like acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen. Take two tablets every four hours as needed for pain. Take each dose with a full glass of water and on a full stomach if possible. If your abdominal cramps are due to a digestion issue, taking these medications may bother your stomach even more. Consult your doctor if you are too sick to your stomach to take over-the-counter medications. She may be able to prescribe you with a painkiller that is gentler on your stomach.
Exercise
Mild to moderate exercise can help muscle cramping in the abdomen if you feel up to it. Take a short walk around the block and see how you feel. If you feel better after the walk, walk a little bit father the next time and continue to exercise regularly. Stretch your back and stomach out by sitting on the floor in a cross-legged position and twisting your torso gently from side-to-side. Reach your hands gently over your head and stretch them from one side of the room to the other. Repeat these stretches several times a day to release your back and abdomen muscles.
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