Intestinal spasms can be caused by underlying conditions such as ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as short-term factors like stress and infections. Treatment involves addressing the underlying disorder, with prescription drugs and surgery as options. Self-treatment includes reducing stress and improving nutritional habits.
Uncontrollable muscle contractions can be an uncomfortable and painful experience, but when these spasms occur in internal organs such as the intestines, the effects can take an even greater toll. In many cases, these unpleasant sensations are just normal, sporadic bodily reactions. Some underlying conditions, however, may have intestinal spasms as a prominent symptom. These include ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and emotional or physical stress. Short-term influences could range from unhealthy nutritional habits to infections.
The internal intestinal muscles must necessarily contract to move waste through the body. Sometimes, though, these contractions occur in the absence of the necessary waste removal. During these events, the spasms are often quite noticeable and painful.
While these attacks are rare, normal nerve malfunctions are the likely culprit for the intestinal spasms. Every individual will likely experience involuntary twitching or movement in some part of the body, and the bowels are no exception. Certain factors such as stress and spicy foods can exacerbate these effects. An intestinal blockage could also hinder proper muscle function, as could an infection caused by a parasite such as blastocystitis hominis.
Such factors could also lead to the development of a more chronic condition called irritable bowel syndrome. This condition — characterized by pain, bloating, and abnormal bowel movements — is a leading cause of spasms. The precise origins of the disease are often unknown. While frequent irritable bowel syndrome can be a precursor to cancer in some cases, intestinal spasms themselves are generally not a common symptom associated with cancer.
Ulcers can cause a similar result. In particular, ulcerative colitis is a condition that occurs due to raw spots in the intestinal area, often due to poor eating habits. The resulting open, raw sores can affect muscle efficiency along the intestinal walls, causing intestinal spasms. A telltale sign of this disorder is bloody stools.
Just like other muscles, the muscles of the intestines are also vulnerable to injury or stress. A tight muscle often contracts and moves abnormally due to inflammation. Emotional stress or anxiety can also negatively affect muscles throughout the body, including the intestines.
Since intestinal spasms are usually a symptom rather than an isolated condition, treating the underlying disorder will likely prove more effective. Prescription drugs can help, and a specific line of medications called antispasmodics are often recommended. Muscle relaxants may also work. In severe cases, surgery may serve as another option. In regards to self-treatment, an individual may wish to reduce stress and poor nutritional habits such as lack of fiber.
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