Stomach spasms can be caused by gastrointestinal disorders, food sensitivities, and inflammatory problems. GERD and gastroparesis are common causes, as are intestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. Treatment depends on the underlying condition.
Stomach spasms are uncontrollable muscle movements in the abdominal area. They can be sudden and painful. While the occasional stomach spasm is normal, prolonged attacks are likely the result of an underlying condition. Disorders affecting the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastroparesis and irritable bowel syndrome, are especially common with stomach spasms. Other causes may include infection or pregnancy.
Inflammatory problems with the stomach lining are a major cause of stomach muscle spasms. Invasive substances such as viruses and bacteria can infect these areas, causing irritation and subsequent spasms. Individuals with food sensitivities or intolerance levels may also be vulnerable. In these cases, allergies to foods such as dairy products can cause stomach inflammation and spasms.
Similar digestive upsets can also create stomach problems. For example, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause imbalances in the amount of acid your stomach produces. The muscle that keeps acid out of the esophagus is also defective in this condition. These combined abnormalities can facilitate both stomach spasms and esophageal spasms.
A disease known as gastroparesis also has stomach spasms among its main symptoms. The vagus nerve, which controls the muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system, doesn’t work properly in this condition. As a result, muscle function in the stomach is hampered and food passes slowly through the tract. A variety of stomach upsets may follow, including nausea, burning sensations, and spasms. GERD is a common cause of this condition, as are diabetes and other chronic ailments.
Also, intestinal disorders in the intestines can cause abdominal problems such as stomach spasms. Irritable bowel syndrome serves as an example. Changes in bowel habits — namely diarrhea or constipation — enlarge and irritate the intestinal tract, which in turn puts similar pressure on the connective stomach area. Spasms can then occur, along with pain and indigestion.
Uncomfortable stomach contractions can further occur in both the mother and baby. A common condition in babies called colic causes sudden short bursts of abdominal pain and muscle spasms. Unexplained crying is the typical indicator of this problem. Stomach spasms that feel like cramps are also not uncommon in pregnant women. While they can be painful, these spasms are often not serious in nature.
Treatment for stomach spasms depends on the origin of the contractions. Sometimes, the spasms are just part of the body’s quirks and go away without damage or intervention. Any lingering symptoms, however, should be examined by a doctor. Correcting the underlying conditions is usually key, and these treatments can range from antibiotics to antacids.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
