Why Do We Feel Stomach Spasms

Stomach spasms are uncontrollable muscle movements in the abdominal area.  In general, they are normal, but sometimes they can be painful and be a symptom of a more serious problem.

If they appear in prolonged episodes, we should see them as an alarm signal. The most common conditions they are associated with are irritable bowel, infection, or even pregnancy. Below, we delve into everything there is to know about stomach spasms.

Factors causing spasms

Muscle spasms are caused by inflammation in the lining of the stomach. These inflammations occur frequently as a result of virus or bacterial infection or some type of food intolerance.

Other digestive disorders that can also cause stomach spasms include gastroesophageal reflux disease and another condition known as gastroparesis, which involves paralysis of the stomach.

In the latter case, the vagus nerve, which is what controls muscle contractions to move food through the digestive system, is damaged and causes food to slow down much. In this way, stomach function is hampered, leading to spasms.

Also, intestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome  count stomach spasms among their symptoms.

This problem occurs when the muscles that are part of the large intestine, which allow contractions – squeeze and release – and which advance the contents towards the rectum, are altered or damaged. These alterations cause irregular contractions and hypersensitivity in the intestinal nerves.

Stomach spasms and pregnancy

As mentioned above, pregnant women also suffer from these spasms; These are undoubtedly painful, but they are not usually of a serious nature.

Like mothers, babies suffer from this painful discomfort in their little bellies, which causes them that persistent crying that sometimes seems inexplicable to us.

In the specific case of babies, the most common causes of stomach spasms are gas, which occurs very frequently during the first three months of life; constipation, which is common in babies who are beginning to consume solid foods; gastroesophageal reflux and gastroenteritis, also known as stomach fever.

The right treatment to stop stomach spasms

Obviously, treatment for stomach spasms largely depends on where they are coming from. Sometimes these pains will disappear without any type of treatment or using home remedies, such as a hot water bottle applied to the area or the consumption of an infusion of certain herbs – chamomile, fennel, anise.

Of course, varying the diet is also a prerequisite for improvement. It is necessary to stop consuming those foods that may be causing gas, such as legumes, cabbage and carbonated drinks), especially for dinner.

However, if the symptoms are prolonged, seeing a doctor is the best option. The professional will look for the underlying reasons and apply the necessary measures to alleviate the symptoms.

Is it possible to prevent them?

During the days when a person is prone to these cramps, it is a good idea to follow a series of suggestions, in order to make their appearance less likely. Some of them are:

• Increase the consumption of liquids, without exceeding: Water and infusions are recommended, especially those of herbs. Avoid coffee and sodas.
• In the moments after the spasm, avoid solid foods and drink liquids, but sip them.
• Avoid the intake of spicy, citrus and fried foods ; alcohol consumption is also discouraged.
• Improve your diet and prioritize fruits and vegetables.
• Eat in smaller quantities, chew well and with your mouth closed.
• Do recreational activities and physical exercise to combat stress, another possible cause of stomach spasms.

When to go to the doctor?

Although muscle spasms in the stomach are usually common, if you identify their presence for several days in a row, you should see a doctor to rule out any problems. It is common that, with slight changes in our diet and with the increase in the intake of natural products, the discomfort is reduced or eliminated.