Abdominal cramps - is a fairly common symptom that occurs in all people, regardless of gender and age category. In most cases, such a sign indicates the course of a pathological process in the body, some of them require immediate medical intervention.

To find out the cause of the occurrence, patients need a physical examination and laboratory and instrumental examinations. The tactics of therapy will directly depend on the causes of the appearance.

Etiology

Allocate wide range predisposing factors for the development of abdominal cramps, they can be both common to all and will differ for men, women and children.

The main group of causes of abdominal cramps:

the development of an inflammatory process in the appendix;
appearance;
the formation or exacerbation of adhesive processes;
infringement of a hernia;
blockage of the bile ducts;
damage to the gallbladder or liver;
acute organism;
malnutrition, in particular bad chewing products;
chronic;
violation of fat metabolism;
or ;
acute or chronic form ;
a wide range of ailments of the urinary system.

Cramps in the lower abdomen in women may be due to:

the flow of menstruation;
gynecological pathologies;
adhesive process in appendages;
hormonal imbalance.

In addition, it is worth highlighting several factors that affect the appearance of such a symptom in female representatives only during the period of bearing a child. Thus, cramps in the lower abdomen during pregnancy occur against the background of:

It follows from this that such a symptom during pregnancy can be provoked by both completely natural causes and dangerous states. If spasms are accompanied by vaginal discharge and other symptoms, then you need to go to an obstetrician-gynecologist for help as soon as possible.

The expression of such an unpleasant symptom in children is not considered uncommon. In babies up to a year old, it is caused by the incomplete formation of organs digestive system and is considered quite normal. However, there are several other situations against which abdominal cramps appear in a child up to a year old:

insufficient production of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary for the breakdown of breast milk;
, formed because future mother during pregnancy took a large number of antibacterial agents;

In older children age group the stomach hurts for the following reasons:

pancreatic colic;
active physical activity that does not correspond to the age category of the child;
allergic reaction to food;
upset stool or diarrhea;
leakage ;
urinary tract infection;
lasting impact stressful situations or nervous tension.

Most rare causes that cause abdominal cramps:

injury to the groin or pelvic area;

Classification

Spasms of the abdominal muscles are usually divided into:

tonic - characterized by prolonged muscle tension;
clonic - jerky spasms. They differ from the previous variety in that muscle contractions alternate with smooth muscle relaxation.

Symptoms

In each person, abdominal muscle cramps will be accompanied by the manifestation of individual clinical signs. The first symptom against which other symptoms will develop is. It can be either periodic or permanent. The degree of intensity varies from dull and aching to sharp and cutting. In some cases, the pain can be so pronounced that the person is forced to take an uncomfortable position, often knee-elbow. Sometimes the opposite happens - it is very difficult to stay in one place, and to reduce pain, you need to move more.

In addition, severe abdominal cramps can be supplemented by the following symptoms:

nausea, which often leads to vomiting. Often in the vomit there are blood impurities;
vaginal bleeding;
rise in temperature;
irradiation of pain sensations on the entire surface of the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity, in the perineum and scrotum, on the chest, neck and shoulder;
shade change stool- they will acquire;
violation of the process of defecation - abdominal cramps and diarrhea are much more common than constipation;
release of a large amount;
urinary retention.

Diagnostics

If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, you should seek qualified help as soon as possible. There are several doctors who can identify the causes of the appearance of the main clinical sign, among them:

obstetrician-gynecologist - only in cases where the patient is a pregnant woman.

Establishment etiological factor requires an integrated approach and is based on the data of laboratory and instrumental examinations. But before their appointment, the doctor must independently carry out several manipulations:

to study the medical history and anamnesis of the patient's life - this will help to identify one or another predisposing factor;
perform a thorough physical examination, which must necessarily include palpation of the abdomen. During this procedure, the clinician pays attention to the patient's response. Women need a gynecological examination and a pregnancy test;
conduct a detailed survey aimed at obtaining a complete picture of the course of abdominal cramps. To do this, it is necessary to report the presence and the first time of onset of symptoms.

Among laboratory tests, the following have the greatest diagnostic value:

general and biochemical analysis blood - will show a change in its composition characteristic of the course of the inflammatory process or other ailments;
general analysis of urine - to control the functioning of the urinary system;
microscopic examination of feces - will indicate the presence of eggs of worms or particles of other pathogens.

The basis of diagnostics is instrumental examinations of the patient, including:

FEGDS - endoscopic procedure for evaluating the internal surface of the digestive tract;
Ultrasound of the peritoneum;
radiography using contrast agent or without it;

These are just the main diagnostic measures that are necessary to establish the causes of abdominal cramps. Each patient is individually assigned additional tests and examinations.

Treatment

The tactics of eliminating such a symptom directly depends on the cause that caused the appearance of spasms.

The general treatment regimen includes:

taking painkillers aimed at stopping pain;
taking a course of therapeutic massage;
intravenous infusion of medicinal solutions - to restore fluid lost due to profuse vomiting and diarrhea;
physiotherapy procedures;
the use of antiemetic and antibacterial agents;
compliance with a sparing diet;
use of recipes alternative medicine– only after the approval of the attending physician.

If a person is disturbed by severe abdominal cramps, then, first of all, it is necessary to completely refuse to eat any food for several days - this is called therapeutic fasting. Often it lasts no more than three days, during which you can drink water without gas or green tea without sugar.

Diet therapy involves complete failure from:

fatty and spicy foods;
canned food and smoked meats;
marinades and pickles;
fresh bread and muffins;
confectionery and sweets;
spices;
mayonnaise and hot sauces;
carbonated drinks and alcohol;
strong coffee, black tea and cocoa.

Such a dietary restriction must be observed for at least three months, at this time it is allowed to eat:

lean meats and fish;
low-fat dairy products;
vegetables and fruits after they have undergone heat treatment;
vegetarian and dairy first courses;
steam omelets and soft-boiled eggs;
compotes and kissels.

A complete list of allowed and prohibited products, sample menu and recommendations regarding the preparation of dishes are provided only by the attending physician.

Good results can be achieved by folk methods that involve the use of:

cumin seeds;
lemon juice;
mint and ginger;
cardamom and coriander;
fennel seeds;
dandelion roots and leaves.

Implementation surgical intervention to eliminate the source of such a symptom is decided on an individual basis, but is never carried out in cases of abdominal cramps during pregnancy.

Prevention

So that a person does not have problems with abdominal cramps, you need to adhere to general rules, among which:

adherence to dietary recommendations;
the implementation of a good rest;
avoidance of stressful situations and physical overwork;
performance hiking, especially after meals;
taking medications only as prescribed by the clinician;
drinking large amounts of fluid per day;
control over regular bowel movements;
wearing a special bandage during pregnancy;
passing the full medical examination several times a year.

Timely detection of abdominal cramps, as well as complete diagnosis and complex treatment increase the likelihood of a favorable prognosis - the complete elimination of the etiological factor and symptoms.

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Clinical significance of the symptom "cramping pain in the lower abdomen"

cramping lower abdominal pain, as a rule, indicates a strong contraction of the smooth muscle of hollow organs located in the lower floor of the abdominal cavity and in the small pelvis, such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, intestines, ureters, bladder.

The smooth muscle of the hollow organs contracts constantly, ensuring the normal movement of their contents. However, in the absence of pathology, this happens absolutely painlessly, so that we do not feel muscle contraction. Bladder, translational movements of the walls of the ureters and intestinal motility.

Normally, women are not worried about either contractions of the fallopian tubes, which ensure the advancement of a mature egg, or the tone of the muscles of the uterus, due to which this organ is timely released from menstrual blood.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen can be very an alarming symptom, indicating a violation of the movement of the contents through the hollow organ (blockage of the ureter by a stone, blockage of the intestine by a ball of ascaris, etc.). Acute obstruction of the urinary system or the digestive tract requires prompt and adequate measures, since it is a life-saving issue.

However, smooth muscle spasms can also be caused by functional disorders. So, if the internal genital organs become the source of cramping pains in the lower abdomen in women, then this may indicate both a severe pathology (spontaneous abortion, the birth of a myomatous node with uterine fibromyoma), and less dangerous functional disorders (cramping pain during painful periods).

In addition, the subjectivity of the symptom should be taken into account.: different people have different degrees of sensitivity to pain, so the strength and nature of the pain syndrome may not correspond to the degree of organic damage. This is especially true for diseases that are combined with dysfunction of the nervous system (irritable bowel syndrome, chronic spastic colitis, vegetative-vascular dystonia).

Thus, cramping pain in the lower abdomen may indicate a variety of diseases, many of which require immediate medical attention. Therefore, when this symptom appears, it is necessary to seek medical help in a timely manner.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with spontaneous abortion

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy may indicate its spontaneous interruption (miscarriage, self-abortion). In such cases, the appearance of a cramping pain syndrome, as a rule, is preceded by pulling pains in the lower abdomen, radiating to the sacrum.

An increase in the intensity of pain, the cramping nature of the pain and the appearance of spotting bloody discharge from the vagina indicate the onset of detachment of the fetal egg, therefore, they are an indication for emergency hospitalization. Even at this stage of self-abortion, with timely and adequate medical care, it is often possible to maintain a pregnancy.

Spontaneous termination of pregnancy threatens the development of life-threatening massive bleeding. In addition, after self-abortion, particles of the fetal egg often remain in the uterine cavity, which should be removed in order to avoid septic complications, such as acute endometritis, acute purulent salpingo-oophoritis, peritonitis, blood poisoning.

Therefore, even in cases where a woman is not interested in maintaining a pregnancy, with the appearance of cramping pains in the lower abdomen, combined with bloody discharge, it is necessary to call for emergency help.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen during an ectopic pregnancy

Cramping pains in the lower abdomen that appear from time to time may indicate a tubal abortion of an ectopic pregnancy. Such a pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg, for one reason or another, does not enter the uterine cavity, but is implanted in the mucous membrane of the fallopian tube.

Of course, a tubal pregnancy cannot develop normally, so either a rupture of the fallopian tube occurs, or the expulsion of the fetal egg - a tubal abortion.

Unlike a tubal rupture, which is a one-time gynecological disaster, the tubal abortion process can take days or even weeks. Spasmodic contractions of the fallopian tube, causing a gradual detachment of the fetal egg, are subjectively perceived as bouts of cramping pain. Pain syndrome, as a rule, is accompanied by bloody discharge from the vagina.

Such bleeding is often perceived by a woman as the onset of menstruation, which greatly complicates the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with obturation intestinal obstruction has a periodic paroxysmal character. Between contractions there may be short periods of complete disappearance of pain (up to 1-2 minutes). In the case of strangulation obstruction, due to compression of the nerves located in the mesentery of the intestine, the pain does not completely subside and remains quite strong even between contractions.

As the pathology progresses, the nervous apparatus of the intestine is depleted and the cramping pain subsides. The complete disappearance of pain is an extremely unfavorable prognostic sign.

All types of acute mechanical intestinal obstruction require immediate hospitalization in the intensive care unit, but treatment tactics may be different. Strangulation obstruction requires emergency surgical intervention, and with obstructive intestinal obstruction, in some cases, conservative methods can be dispensed with.
The most common types of acute intestinal obstruction, occurring with cramping pain in the lower abdomen, are the following pathologies:

intestinal volvulus;

intestinal intussusception;

obstructive intestinal obstruction associated with blockage of the intestine by a tumor or fecal stone;

acute intestinal obstruction caused by adhesions in the pelvis;

acute intestinal obstruction associated with infringement of the inguinal or femoral hernia.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the left with volvulus of the sigmoid colon

Intestinal volvulus is a pathology in which there is an abnormal twist-twisting of the intestinal loops along with the mesentery by 180-360 degrees or more.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the left occurs when twisting sigmoid colon- pathology, comprising from 50 to 80% of all types of intestinal volvulus.

The sigmoid colon is located in the left iliac region (below the navel on the left) and is an S-shaped curved section of the large intestine that directly flows into the final section of the digestive tract - the rectum.

The occurrence of volvulus of the sigmoid colon is facilitated by congenital anatomical abnormalities in the structure of this segment of the intestine, such as increased length, increased mobility due to lengthening of the mesentery of the intestine, as well as acquired pathologies (age-related or inflammatory bowel deformities).

The resolving factor may be a plentiful intake of roughage in combination with increased physical activity.

The most common volvulus of the sigmoid colon develops in the elderly and old age. In most patients, it is possible to trace a characteristic triad of symptoms preceding the development of pathology: attacks of pulling pains in the lower abdomen on the left, constipation and flatulence.
Cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the left during volvulus of the sigmoid colon develops suddenly, while in the period between contractions intense pain persists, felt in the depths of the abdomen. From the very beginning of the disease, there is a delay in feces and gases.

There is asymmetry of the abdomen with a protrusion formed by the swollen sigmoid colon on the left. Since intestinal obstruction develops at the level of the most distal parts of the digestive tract during volvulus of the sigmoid colon, vomiting in this pathology develops much less frequently than in other types of intestinal volvulus.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the right with volvulus of the caecum

Volvulus of the caecum is much less common. Predisposing factors for the development of this pathology are acute and chronic diseases adjacent parts of the intestine (chronic appendicitis, ileal diverticula, Crohn's disease, chronic inflammation caecum, etc.).

Clinic volvulus of the caecum is in many ways similar to the volvulus of the sigmoid colon. However, the level of intestinal obstruction is much higher, so often after the development of cramping pains in the lower abdomen on the left, loosening of the stool (most often a single liquid stool) is possible, which is replaced by a delay in stool and gases. In addition, repeated exhausting vomiting is more characteristic: at first, reflex - the food eaten the day before, then stagnant intestinal contents and feces appear in the vomit.

To avoid volvulus of the caecum and sigmoid colon, inflammatory bowel disease should be treated in a timely manner. Elderly people, as well as patients with chronic inflammatory processes in the lower digestive tract, should avoid eating roughage in large quantities.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with intussusception

Intussusception of the intestine is the introduction of the overlying part of the intestine into the lumen of the underlying. This type of intestinal obstruction is called mixed, because as a result of invagination, the intestinal lumen sharply narrows (obstructive intestinal obstruction) and the mesentery of the intruding intestinal area is infringed (strangulation intestinal obstruction).

Intestinal intussusception develops more often in children than in adults, in men more often than in women. In children, pathology often occurs after an adenovirus infection, which caused a violation of normal intestinal motility.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the right develops when the end section of the small intestine is introduced into the large intestine (the so-called ileocolic intussusception), this type of pathology accounts for about 25% of all intussusceptions.

Contribute to the occurrence of ileocolic intussusception congenital features the structure of this section of the intestine (obtuse angle between the final section of the small and large intestines, insufficiency of the natural valve between the large and small intestines, especially the ratio of the lumen of the small and large intestines).

The immediate cause of intussusception may be helminthic invasion, foreign body, gallstone exit, coarse food intake.

The intensity of cramping pain and the severity of concomitant symptoms with intussusception of the intestine depends on the degree of infringement of the mesentery. With a strong infringement, the disease takes a hyperacute course with early necrosis of the intussusceptum and the development of peritonitis, so that patients, in the absence of adequate assistance, die within one day. In cases where the violation of blood circulation in the mesentery is not very pronounced, it may take several days or even weeks before the development of peritonitis.

Iliocolic invagination begins with cramping pains in the lower abdomen on the right, at first there are light intervals between contractions, then the pain during contractions becomes unbearable and does not completely disappear between contractions.

A specific sign of intussusception is the appearance of bloody discharge from the anus, but this symptom appears 6-12 hours after the onset of cramping pain.

Cramping pains in the lower abdomen with obstruction of the rectum or sigmoid colon

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the left occurs with obstructive intestinal obstruction caused by a sharp narrowing of the lumen of the final sections of the intestine - the sigmoid or rectum.

Obstructive obstruction is characterized by a particularly strong intestinal motility, which tends to push the intestinal contents through the narrowed lumen. So often peristaltic waves can be observed through the anterior wall of the abdomen. In this case, pain and peristalsis increase after palpation (palpation) of the affected area.

It should be noted that obstructive intestinal obstruction most often develops in the terminal sections of the intestine. As a rule, obstruction of the distal gastrointestinal tract is associated with cancer of the rectum or sigmoid colon.

Features of the structure and functioning of the final sections of the intestine (relative narrowness of the lumen, natural bends and narrowing of the sigmoid colon, dense consistency of the contents) lead to the fact that intestinal obstruction in malignant tumors of the rectum and sigmoid colon develops quite early and often becomes the cause of tumor detection.

As a rule, intestinal obstruction in malignant tumors develops gradually, so that patients note a tendency to constipation, a ribbon-like feces and the periodic appearance of pulling pains in the lower abdomen. Then episodes of transient obstructive intestinal obstruction begin to occur: attacks of cramping pains in the lower abdomen, accompanied by retention of feces and gases.

And, finally, acute obstructive intestinal obstruction develops with all the characteristic symptoms: the appearance of cramping pains in the lower abdomen, the intensity of which increases with time, so that the pain becomes unbearable; retention of feces and gases, vomiting, a sharp deterioration in the general condition of the patient.

With obstructive obstruction caused by cancer of the rectum or sigmoid colon, the treatment is exclusively surgical. The choice of the method of surgical intervention depends on the condition of the patient and the size of the tumor.

Much less often, fecal stones (coprolites) become the cause of obturation of the rectum or sigmoid colon. As a rule, this type of acute intestinal obstruction develops in old age and is associated with age-related or inflammatory deformities of the terminal part of the digestive tract.

Most often, obturation with fecal stones develops in older women with a tendency to prolonged constipation. The clinic in such cases is similar to the course of acute intestinal obstruction caused by a malignant tumor: excruciating cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the left, retention of feces and gases, visible asymmetry of the abdomen due to the swollen sigmoid colon. In patients with normal or low weight, intestinal motility can be observed through abdominal wall.

Treatment of acute intestinal failure caused by obturation of the final section of the digestive tract with fecal stones is mainly conservative (siphon and oil enemas are used, digital removal of coprolites).

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with acute intestinal failure caused by adhesive disease

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen may also indicate acute intestinal obstruction caused by adhesive disease. The intensity of the pain syndrome, as well as the severity and dynamics of the accompanying symptoms, depend on the form of intestinal obstruction (strangulation or obturation) and on the site of the affected intestine (this may be the final section of the small intestine, the caecum or sigmoid colon).

Adhesion formation is a protective process aimed at limiting the inflammatory process. A special substance is released - fibrin, from which the thinnest films are formed that prevent the spread of infection throughout the abdominal cavity. Normally, all processes in the body are balanced, so that the adhesions caused by the inflammatory process resolve over time.

However, in some cases, fibrin adhesions thicken, grow into vessels and nervous tissue, so that abnormal strands are formed between various organs of the abdominal cavity. These strands impede the normal functioning of the intestine, and under unfavorable circumstances lead to acute intestinal obstruction.

As a rule, the development of acute intestinal obstruction is preceded by episodes of attacks of cramping pain in the lower abdomen and a tendency to constipation, indicating transient disturbances in the passage of intestinal contents.

In addition, specific symptoms are characteristic of adhesive disease: Carnot's symptom (appearance or increase in pain with a sharp extension of the body), Leott's symptom (appearance or increase in pain with displacement of the skin fold of the abdomen) and other signs of the formation of abnormal adhesions in the abdominal cavity.

Among the reasons for the development of adhesive disease, the leading place is occupied by surgical interventions (primarily, removal of the appendix in acute appendicitis) and infectious and inflammatory diseases of the internal genital organs in women. Therefore, patients at risk should be especially careful and, if episodic cramping tumors appear in the lower abdomen, seek medical help.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with infringement of the inguinal or femoral hernia

A hernia is an abnormal penetration of internal organs (most often intestinal loops) through the abdominal wall under the skin without violating the integrity of the latter. In this case, the internal organs are surrounded by a parietal peritoneum (a membrane lining the abdominal cavity) - the so-called hernial sac.

Penetration of the hernial sac through the abdominal wall occurs in the weakest places (navel, surgical sutures, anatomical channels through which nerves normally pass, blood vessels or other authorities). The place where the hernial sac passes through the abdominal wall is called the hernial orifice.

A severe deadly complication of a hernia is its incarceration in the hernial orifice. In cases where the intestinal loop located in the hernial sac is infringed, acute mechanical strangulation intestinal obstruction develops (the mesentery of the intestine is clamped and blood circulation in the affected intestine is disturbed).

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen develops when the most common inguinal and femoral hernias are infringed. These hernias pass through natural anatomical canals (inguinal and femoral, respectively) and, at the stage of a resolved hernia, are found as a protrusion in the region of the inner part of the inguinal fold.

Large hernias are easily identified visually, so diagnosis in such cases is not difficult. However, herniation is enough insidious disease, so that in some cases the diagnosis is made after the development of acute mechanical intestinal obstruction (especially in the case of femoral hernia in obese women).

If an incarcerated hernia is suspected, emergency hospitalization is necessary, the treatment is exclusively surgical: an operation is urgently performed to free the affected intestine.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with dysentery

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with dysentery is associated with spastic contractions of the affected parts of the intestine. The favorite habitat of pathogens of bacterial dysentery is the sigmoid and rectum.

Therefore, dysentery occurs with symptoms of acute inflammation of the final sections of the intestine.: pulling and cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the left, frequent loose stools and painful urge to defecate. AT severe cases stool frequency reaches 20 times a day or more. In this case, a characteristic symptom of "rectal spitting" is observed: during defecation, a small amount of mucopurulent contents with bloody streaks is released.

Dysentery is a contagious disease, the transmission of infection occurs only from person to person through dirty hands, dishes, food. In summer, the “fly” factor is of some importance (flies carry pathogenic bacteria on their paws).

With the appearance of cramping pain in the lower abdomen, combined with symptoms of dysentery, you should immediately seek help to avoid severe complications and not endanger the health of loved ones.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen with renal colic

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen can occur with renal colic. The mechanism of development of the pain syndrome is increased peristalsis ureter trying to push through an obstruction that obstructs the outflow of urine.

The most common cause of renal colic is urolithiasis, in which the formed urinary stones descend into the ureter and block its lumen. Less commonly, an inflammatory process (the lumen is blocked by a blood clot, pus, or a dead area of the kidney tissue) or an oncological disease (blockage by a piece of a decaying tumor) becomes the cause of blockage of the ureter.

Regardless of the cause of blockage, the clinic of renal colic is homogeneous and quite specific: severe cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the right or left (depending on the affected ureter), which does not subside at rest. The pain radiates down along the ureter to the genitals and inner surface hips. Often there is a reflex vomiting that does not bring relief (usually single).

As a rule, patients note soreness in the kidney area on the affected side. The survey often reveals predisposing factors (episodes of renal colic in the past, hereditary predisposition to urolithiasis).

Unlike other pathologies that occur with the symptom of "cramping pain in the lower abdomen", with renal colic, as a rule, the general condition of the patient remains relatively satisfactory for a long time, so patients do not lie in bed, but rush around the room, trying to alleviate the pain syndrome.

If cramping pain in the lower abdomen raises suspicion of renal colic, you should immediately consult a doctor. With the diagnosis of "renal colic", the medical tactic is expectant, since in the vast majority of cases the attack can be stopped with the help of conservative measures (antispasmodics, analgesics, a warm bath, bed rest, diet).

However, observation is necessary, since complications may develop, such as acute urinary retention followed by the formation of dropsy of the kidney or the addition of a secondary infection with the development of purulent pyelonephritis.

Which doctor should I contact with cramping pain in the lower abdomen?

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen may be a symptom various diseases any organs located in this area (female genitals, large intestine, kidneys, ureters, bladder, etc.), so it’s unambiguous to say which doctor to contact when this appears warning sign, impossible. Moreover, in some cases, cramping pain in the lower abdomen may indicate the development of serious conditions in which immediate medical intervention is required to save a life, since in the absence of qualified help, a person will simply die.

Therefore, below we will indicate in which cases cramping pain in the lower abdomen should be considered a sign of a life-threatening condition and, accordingly, should be immediately called " ambulance". And in what cases such pains do not represent a life-threatening condition, and therefore require a visit to a doctor in a planned manner. It is for cases of a necessary planned visit to a doctor that we will consider which specialist should be visited depending on the accompanying symptoms.

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen is considered life-threatening, and therefore requiring an immediate call to an ambulance, which does not subside with time, but, on the contrary, intensifies, is combined with high fever, general weakness, vomiting that does not give relief, bloody discharge from the genital tract , headaches, a sharp decrease in blood pressure, fainting, sometimes asymmetry of the abdomen, and also radiates to the groin, sacrum, anus, navel and other parts of the body. Such symptom complexes indicate that a person has developed serious condition(For example, ectopic pregnancy, intestinal obstruction, volvulus, etc.), life-threatening, and therefore immediate medical intervention is necessary to save it. That is why, in the event of the appearance of these pains in the lower abdomen, you need to urgently call an ambulance or get to the nearest hospital with your own transport.

If a woman has cramping pains in the lower abdomen during menstruation, then you should contact gynecologist (make an appointment), since a similar symptom may indicate diseases of the genital organs (for example, narrowing of the cervical canal, adhesions in the uterine cavity, scars or deformities of the uterus, fallopian tubes and cervix, etc.).

In addition, it is necessary to contact a gynecologist if a woman experiences severe cramping pains in the lower abdomen, which are initially felt on the right and left, and then migrate only to the right or only to the left, can appear suddenly or after stress, hypothermia, physical activity, and also spread to the sacrum , lower back, groin or rectum and be combined with pain when urinating, irregular cycle, fatigue, irascibility, irritability, inflammatory vaginal discharge (greenish, yellowish, grayish, mixed with bubbles, flakes, pus, mucus, etc.) or elevated body temperature. Similar pains of a cramping nature in women are usually a sign of an inflammatory process in the genitals, for example, adnexitis, salpingitis, pyosalpinx, etc.

Also, appeals to a gynecologist require cramping pains in the lower abdomen, if they are provoked by sexual intercourse, aggravated during menstruation, spread to the lower back, coccyx, sacrum, combined with bleeding from the genitals, since such symptoms may indicate the presence of tumor or tumor-like formations in the genitals .

When there is severe cramping pain in the lower abdomen, which does not radiate to other parts of the abdomen and to the perineum, but is often felt simultaneously in the lower abdomen and in the navel, is combined with constipation, diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, rumbling, frequent defecation or painful urge to defecate, then you need to contact Gastroenterologist (make an appointment) or therapist (sign up), since such symptoms may be due to intestinal diseases, such as colitis, enterocolitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome.

When cramping pains in the lower abdomen are combined with pain in the anus, rectum, frequent urge to defecate, diarrhea, increased pain during bowel movements, then you need to turn to proctologist (make an appointment) or surgeon (make an appointment), since such a symptom complex may indicate proctosigmoiditis.

When cramping pains in the lower abdomen are simultaneously felt or given to the groin and lower back, combined with urination disorder (blood in the urine, painful, frequent urination), force a person to constantly change position (since it is impossible to find a position in which the pain subsides even a little), then you should refer to urologist (make an appointment) or a surgeon, since this symptom complex indicates renal colic on the background of urolithiasis, blockage of the ureter with a stone, etc.

When cramping pain in the lower abdomen is combined with frequent liquid or mushy stool with impurities of blood or mucus, rumbling, bloating, pain during bowel movements, lack of relief after a bowel movement, and in some cases with nausea and vomiting, then the person needs to contact infectious disease doctor (make an appointment), since such symptoms indicate an intestinal infection (dysentery, etc.).

What tests can doctors prescribe for cramping pain in the lower abdomen?

Due to the fact that cramping pains in the lower abdomen can be provoked by various diseases, the doctor prescribes different examinations for given symptom, depending on what kind of pathology he suspects based on concomitant symptoms. Thus, the list of tests and examinations in each case with cramping pain in the lower abdomen is determined by the accompanying symptoms.

In cases where the symptoms allow one to suspect an intestinal disease, that is, a person suffers from cramping pains in the lower abdomen, which can be felt simultaneously in the navel or not, and the presence of constipation, diarrhea, frequent bowel movements is also possible soft stool, frequent urge to defecate, bloating, rumbling in the abdomen, flatulence, pain in the anus and intestines, increased pain during bowel movements, the doctor prescribes the following tests and examinations to identify a specific intestinal pathology:

General blood analysis ;
Analysis of feces for worm eggs;
Coprological analysis of feces;
Analysis of feces for dysbacteriosis (sign up);
A stool culture or blood test for Clostridium;
Ultrasound of the abdominal organs (make an appointment);
Colonoscopy (make an appointment)/sigmoidoscopy (make an appointment);
Irrigoscopy (X-ray of the intestine with contrast) (to make an appointment);
Computer or magnetic resonance imaging (make an appointment);
Analysis of feces for calprotectin;
Blood test for the presence of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (enroll);
Blood test for the presence of antibodies to saccharomycetes.

The specified list of analyzes and examinations is not prescribed immediately in full, since, first of all, the doctor directs a person only to those studies that make it possible to establish a diagnosis in the vast majority of cases. This means that usually the doctor first prescribes a complete blood count, a fecal stool test, a fecal test for worm eggs, an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity and small pelvis, as well as a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. In most situations, these tests are sufficient to identify and confirm the pathology, therefore, other examinations from the above list, if there is already a diagnosis, are not prescribed as unnecessary. However, if the minimum list of examinations was not enough to make a diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe irrigoscopy or computed tomography, and these methods are used as alternatives, that is, either irrigoscopy or computed tomography is performed, but not both at once. An analysis of feces for clostridium is prescribed only in one case - when the doctor suspects that colitis is caused by taking antibiotics. Fecal tests for calprotectin, blood tests for Saccharomycetes antibodies, and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies are given to people who are suspected of having Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis and who for some reason cannot undergo a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, barium enema, or computed tomography.

If a person is concerned about cramping pain in the lower abdomen, resembling a picture of renal colic, that is, the pain is localized on the right or left, spreads to the groin, lower back and inner thigh, is combined with urination disorders (blood in the urine, pain during urination, frequent urge to urinate, etc. .d.) and makes you constantly restlessly rush around the apartment or bed, trying to find a position in which the pain will decrease at least a little, then the doctor usually prescribes the following tests and examinations:

General urine analysis ;
General blood analysis;
Ultrasound of the kidneys (make an appointment) and bladder;
Cystoscopy (make an appointment);
Urography (X-ray of the organs of the urinary system with X-ray contrast agent) (to make an appointment);
Renal scintigraphy (book now) and urinary tract;
CT scan.

Usually, the doctor first prescribes a complete blood and urine test, Ultrasound of the bladder (make an appointment) and kidneys, urography, since it is these studies from the list that make it possible to make a diagnosis in the vast majority of cases. And if the diagnosis is made, then other examinations from the list are already unnecessary, as a result of which it is obvious that scintigraphy, cystoscopy and computed tomography are used only in cases where the minimum set of studies was insufficient for diagnosis. If it is technically possible, the doctor can immediately prescribe computed tomography instead of urography.

If cramping pain in the lower abdomen is combined with frequent bowel movements liquid stool with or without an admixture of mucus and blood, rumbling in the abdomen, bloating, lack of relief after a bowel movement, and sometimes vomiting, the doctor suspects an intestinal infection and prescribes the following tests and examinations:

Bacteriological culture of feces, vomit or washings;
Blood test for the presence of antibodies to pathogens of intestinal infections ( salmonella (sign up), shigella, vibrio cholerae, rotavirus, etc.) by ELISA and RNGA;
Analysis for the detection of DNA of pathogens of intestinal infections (Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio cholerae, Rotavirus, etc.) by PCR in feces, vomit, washings, blood;
Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy;
Irrigoscopy.

First of all, tests are prescribed to identify the causative agent of intestinal infection (bacteriological cultures of feces, vomit, washings, PCR to identify pathogens of intestinal infections in feces, vomit, washings, blood, as well as the detection of antibodies in the blood to pathogens of intestinal infections by the method ELISA and RNHA), since the clinical picture indicates just such a disease and requires identification of the infection in order to carry out the necessary sanitary and epidemiological measures. In practice, bacteriological cultures of feces, vomit and washings and a blood test for antibodies by the RNGA method are most often prescribed. And the analyzes PCR method and ELISA is prescribed if it is technically possible, or if RNHA and bacteriological cultures did not allow to identify the causative agent of intestinal infection. Colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy or irrigoscopy are prescribed only if, according to the results of the tests, the causative agent of the intestinal infection was not identified, and therefore the doctor suspected that another, more serious disease intestines, simply flowing with an atypical clinic.

Paroxysmal pains in the lower abdomen, which first cover the entire area of the lower abdomen, but then move to the right or left, radiate to the sacrum, lower back, groin, or rectum, which can be combined with pain when urinating, irregular menstrual cycles, irritability, severe fatigue, or fever , lead to suspicions about the presence of inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs, especially the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Therefore, in the presence of such cramping pains in the lower abdomen in a woman, the gynecologist prescribes the following tests and examinations:

Gynecological bimanual examination (sign up);
General blood analysis;
General urine analysis;
A smear on the flora from the vagina (sign up));
Hysterosalpingography (sign up).

First of all, the doctor prescribes a gynecological bimanual examination, during which he feels the internal genital organs with his hands and assesses their condition (size, shape, mobility, elasticity, soreness, etc.). In addition to a bimanual examination, an ultrasound of the pelvic organs, a smear on the flora, and general blood and urine tests are mandatory. Usually, this incomplete list of tests and examinations is enough to make a diagnosis, as a result of which the doctor may not prescribe other tests as unnecessary. However, if the minimum set of tests did not allow clarifying the diagnosis, then the doctor additionally prescribes other studies from the list above.

If a woman periodically has cramping pains in the lower abdomen on the right, left or left, right and in the middle at the same time, which can be given to the lower back, coccyx, sacrum or rectum, provoked by sexual intercourse, aggravated during menstruation, combined with bleeding, lengthening menstrual cycle, clots in menstrual blood, then the doctor prescribes, first of all, a bimanual gynecological examination, ultrasound of the pelvic organs, a smear from the vagina on the flora, as well as a general blood and urine test. These studies allow either to fully determine the diagnosis, or give the doctor the right direction for reflection. If ultrasound, smear on flora, bimanual examination and blood and urine tests did not allow a diagnosis, then the doctor prescribes hysteroscopy (make an appointment) or computed/magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, in addition to assessing the general condition of the body and identifying possible causes of the disease, the doctor may prescribe a blood test for clotting ( coagulogram (sign up)), on the concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone and prolactin (sign up), as well as a biochemical blood test.

With painful menstruation, first of all, the doctor prescribes the following tests and studies:

Bimanual gynecological examination;
A smear on the flora from the vagina;
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
General urine analysis;
General blood analysis;
Coagulogram (blood test for clotting);
Blood chemistry;
A blood test for the concentration of hormones (LH, FSH, testosterone, prolactin, estradiol, etc.).

The specified list of tests allows you to identify the causes of painful menstruation in many cases. But if these studies were not enough, then in addition to finding out the causes of pain during menstruation, hysteroscopy, computed or magnetic resonance imaging, and any other studies that the doctor considers necessary can be prescribed.

What diseases does pain in the lower abdomen indicate? - Video

Before use, you should consult with a specialist.

Painful muscle contractions and abdominal cramps can occur for many reasons, however, correct diagnosis is essential for treatment.

The feeling of convulsive pain is associated with painful spasms in the intestines and needs proper therapy.

Constipation, viral infections, diarrhea and food poisoning, as well as many other factors, can cause stomach cramps.

When there are colic in the abdomen, what to do? The answer to this question will be to identify the causes of the appearance given state.

Causes

Although colic may only last a few minutes, it can be quite severe and make life literally unbearable for the sufferer.

Colic gives pain due to involuntary contraction abdominal muscles. When these abnormal contractions are accompanied by increased bowel movements and diarrhea, the phenomenon cannot be taken lightly, because this symptomatology indicates an indigestion.

In some cases, colic is limited to a specific part of the abdomen, indicating that some organ in the abdomen is not working properly. It could be:

gallbladder;
pancreas;
intestines.

However, if colic and similar pains affect most stomach, often this is due to overeating and an inactive lifestyle, which lead to gas, indigestion and bloating.

Causes of severe muscle spasms and stomach cramps can range from minor factors to serious problems.

Eating contaminated food can lead to food poisoning.

Infection with viral agents (eg, rotavirus) is also possible. Common symptoms viral infections are diarrhea, muscle spasms, constipation, nausea and vomiting.

Infections such as viral gastroenteritis, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems.

Lactose intolerance is another cause of gastrointestinal problems. Lactose is present in milk and dairy products. Some people cannot tolerate lactose because the body cannot absorb it easily.

Intolerance to this substance can cause abdominal cramps in specific individuals. Other symptoms include flatulence, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea.

Lack of coordination between intestinal muscles and nervous system causes irritable bowel syndrome.

The symptoms of this digestive disorder are cramps, colic, constipation, bloating, and nausea. On the initial stages IBS, after a bowel movement, colic disappears, but after a while they return again.

Another cause of colic in the abdomen is gastritis. The perception of pain is first felt above the navel, and it moves downward, producing severe abdominal colic.

Other signs of spasm are nausea, diarrhea, bad breath and belching, and stomach pain.

In some people, gluten is hardly absorbed by the body and causes gluten intolerance. Consuming gluten can damage the small intestine if a person is suffering from celiac disease.

In this disease, the small intestine lacks the ability to absorb nutrients leading to colic, dehydration and fatigue.

Severe abdominal pain may be a symptom of colon cancer. The formation of a tumor in the colon causes obstruction, constipation appears.

Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) can also cause abdominal cramps and bowel dysfunction.

The pancreas is mainly involved in the production of enzymes and digestive juices that allow the body to digest the food that is swallowed.

It is believed that pancreatitis is often diagnosed in alcoholics. Regardless of what its cause is, the symptoms of pancreatitis that are observed in patients include:

girdle pain in the abdomen;
gas formation;
nausea;
diarrhea.

In cholecystitis, the gallbladder becomes inflamed. The main task of the gallbladder is to concentrate bile (digestive juice) from the liver and transfer it to the duodenum for normal digestion.

Formation of gallstones in the bladder and stones in bile ducts are the most common causes of cholecystitis.

Patients with this disease often complain of colic in the right side of the abdominal region. As the condition progresses, it can affect the liver and cause jaundice.

Some studies show that people who have crossed the age of 60 tend to suffer from diverticulosis, a condition in which sac structures (sacs, also called diverticula) form on the inner wall of the large intestine.

In most cases, these multiple packets are found in the lower left side of the bowel. These formations are harmless and usually do not affect the normal functioning of the intestines.

Consequently, many people do not even realize that they have diverticula. However, when these sacs become inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. It is characterized by colic, which usually occurs in the left side of the abdominal region.

Appendicitis causes inflammation of the appendix (a structure in the caecum). Colic, which causes severe pain in the right side of the abdomen, is the most well-known manifestation of appendicitis.

In addition to severe pain and fever, patients may also experience diarrhea or constipation.

Infections that are found in the digestive tract can also cause health problems such as stomach ulcers and gastroenteritis.

Intra-abdominal colic, along with diarrhea and vomiting, are common symptoms of many stomach diseases.

People with stomach problems often lose their appetite. Abdominal discomfort is often seen as a precursor to stomach ulcers.

Persistent diarrhea accompanied by abdominal cramps can also indicate colon cancer. Until the tumor becomes large enough, symptoms usually do not appear, therefore, go unnoticed.

However, once the cancer has spread, there may be significant rectal bleeding in the form of bloody diarrhea.

Eating contaminated food often causes food poisoning, which can cause diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Therapy and prevention

It is always possible to take preventive measures on early stages colic in the stomach.

Eat healthy foods and follow a diet that includes fiber supplements and increased fluid intake. In addition, you can eat bran along with oatmeal.

It is important to protect yourself from anxiety and stress. Exercise and yoga are useful for maintaining a normal psychological state and avoiding abdominal discomfort.

Changes in a person's lifestyle through healthy and regular exercise will help him live a full life without health problems.

Colic in the abdomen can be easily eliminated if you pay attention to this condition in a timely manner.

Treatment for colic and abdominal pain can vary from one person to another, depending on the cause and overall health.

For a minor cause (excessive gas, for example), home remedies such as lemon and ginger can help relieve pain.

Ginger root tea has healing properties with intra-abdominal spasms and colic.

A diet high in fiber, avoiding junk food, and avoiding excessive alcohol intake can help avoid most digestive problems.

Consuming foods rich in probiotic bacteria, which help maintain a healthy intestinal flora, can help relieve the symptoms of constipation and colic.

The patient should still consult a doctor if he often suffers from pain and colic in the abdomen.

Only after the doctor knows the history of the disease and the type of symptoms, he can prescribe to identify the causes of colic and tell the patient what to do to get rid of the pain.

Useful video

Abdominal cramps occur when the muscles in the abdomen or intestines contract involuntarily. These spasms can vary in intensity and duration..

In most cases, spasms are not detrimental to health, but they may indicate the presence of underlying conditions that require medical investigation.

Learn more about stomach cramps in this article. We will talk about the causes of spasms, prevention and available methods treatment.

The content of the article:

Why do stomach cramps occur?

Each of the following conditions can lead to abdominal cramps.

1. Constipation

Cramps and spasms are common symptoms of constipation.

Cramps that occur in the abdomen can have many various reasons including gas, muscle strain, irritable bowel syndrome and constipation.

Other symptoms include:

infrequent bowel movements (usually less than three times a week);
allocation during bowel emptying of small volumes of hard stools;
bloating;
bowel movements require effort.

2. Dehydration

Dehydration often causes an imbalance of electrolytes in the body, in particular sodium and potassium. Muscles need these nutrients to function properly, so if they are deficient, abdominal cramps can occur.

Other symptoms of dehydration may include:

dark urine;
dizziness;
strong thirst;
headache.

3. Gas

Too much gas in the abdomen can lead to cramping as the muscles in the intestines contract to get rid of the gas.

Excess gas can also lead to the following:

bloating;
feeling full;
stomach ache.

4. Gastritis and gastroenteritis

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach, and gastroenteritis is characterized by inflammation of both the stomach and intestines. These two conditions usually result from infections.

Gastritis and gastroenteritis can cause the following symptoms:

bloating;
nausea;
abdominal pain;
vomiting;
diarrhea (only with gastroenteritis).

5. Intestinal obstruction and gastroparesis

Digested food passes through the intestines of the body due to wave-like muscle contractions which are called peristalsis. When peristalsis slows down or stops in any part of the intestine, intestinal obstruction occurs.

Intestinal obstruction can be caused by several conditions, including:

infections;
inflammation;
lack of physical activity;
operations;
drug use.

Other symptoms of intestinal obstruction include:

discomfort in the abdominal cavity;
nausea;
vomit.

obstruction that affects muscular apparatus stomach, in medicine it is called gastroparesis. This condition can also cause abdominal cramps, especially after eating.

6. Infectious colitis

Colitis is inflammation of the large intestine. There are several types of colitis. If the inflammation is caused by an infection, then we are talking about infectious colitis.

In addition to abdominal cramps, symptoms infectious colitis include:

dehydration;
diarrhea
frequent bowel movements.

Infectious colitis can be caused by eating contaminated food or water that contains pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Giardia.

7. Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term that summarizes several chronic diseases that are characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract. IBD affects millions of people around the planet.

The most common types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both of these conditions can cause cramps and other symptoms, including:

constipation;
diarrhea
fatigue;
fever
need for more frequent emptying intestines;
weight loss.

8. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder in which the digestive tract looks intact but causes symptoms.

This condition is experienced by 10 to 15 percent of people, and this fact makes CPTS the most common. functional disorder digestive systems.

In addition to abdominal cramps, symptoms of CPTS include:

abdominal pain;
bloating;
constipation;
diarrhea;

9. Ischemic enteritis and colitis

Ischemic colitis is a condition in which insufficient blood supply causes inflammation of the colon. When this problem affects the small intestine, doctors diagnose ischemic enteritis.

Both diseases lead to abdominal cramps and other symptoms, including:

diarrhea
fever
loss of appetite;
nausea;
vomiting.

10. Muscle strain

Too intense or too frequent work of the abdominal muscles often leads to cramps that occur in the abdomen. People who regularly do abs and squats have high risk occurrence of such spasms.

Other symptoms of muscle strain include:

pain that gets worse with movement
muscle sensitivity.

Abdominal cramps during pregnancy

In pregnant women, Braxton-Hicks contractions may be the cause of abdominal cramps.

The changes that occur in the body during pregnancy can cause abdominal cramps. In most cases, they are not a serious problem. However, women who experience regular or painful cramps should talk to their doctor about it.

The following are conditions that can cause cramps during pregnancy.

Braxton Hicks contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions also called false contractions. Such contractions usually disturb women in the third trimester of pregnancy, although sometimes they begin in the second.

Braxton Hicks contractions are characterized by contraction and tension of the muscles of the uterus for a period of 30 seconds to 2 minutes before relaxing. Such abbreviations may be:

infrequent;
variable in intensity;
more uncomfortable than painful.

Contractions that tend to get better over time rather than get worse are more likely to be Braxton-Hicks contractions, especially if they occur earlier than labor is expected.

Gas

Many pregnant women experience gas due to high content hormone in the body.

While progesterone is essential for a healthy pregnancy, it can also cause bowel muscles to relax, which slows down digestion and leads to gas.

Crick

The muscles of the abdomen and uterus stretch throughout pregnancy, adapting to the growth of the child. As the muscles stretch, they can cause spasms or bouts of pain.

Some level of muscle pain and cramping is tolerable during pregnancy, but severe pain or pain that is accompanied by bleeding and fever should be evaluated by a physician immediately.

Child movements

When the baby kicks the mother or just moves, it can also lead to a spasm-like feeling, especially in the second trimester. In the third trimester, such strokes are usually stronger and more pronounced, so they are more difficult to confuse with spasms.

Diagnosis of abdominal cramps

A doctor can diagnose the causes of abdominal cramps based on:

physical examination;
medical history;
blood test;
imaging techniques such as ultrasound or computed tomography.

At the beginning of the conversation, the doctor will ask the patient what symptoms he observes and whether these symptoms have triggers, that is, provoking factors.

The doctor may also ask the patient to keep a journal in which the following should be recorded:

when spasms occur;
food consumed on the days of the onset of spasms;
physical activity carried out on the days of spasms.

When should you see a doctor with stomach cramps?

In many cases, abdominal cramps go away on their own and do not become a source of serious problems. However, severe and frequent spasms may indicate more serious conditions and should be evaluated by a doctor.

A person should go to the hospital if they experience the following symptoms:

blood in the stool;
chest pain;
difficulty breathing;
emotional problems associated with spasms;
fever;
severe pain;
vomiting;
skin that has a yellow tint;
weight loss.

How to treat abdominal cramps?

Treatment for abdominal cramps depends on their cause.

Treating spasms at home

Healthy water balance and moderate consumption of sports drinks may be recommended to relieve abdominal cramps

Many people manage to relieve spasms with the help of methods home treatment. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before using some of the strategies below.

Rest. People who experience cramping due to muscle strain can improve their condition by taking long periods of rest during which the abdominal muscles are not working.
Warmly. Applying heating pads or hot water bottles to the stomach sometimes relaxes the muscles and relieves cramps.
Water balance. Drinking enough water will help avoid dehydration, which can both cause stomach cramps and exacerbate existing ones. Specialty sports drinks that replenish the body's electrolytes may also be helpful. However, they must be used moderate amount due to the high sugar content.
Massage. Gently massaging the abdominal muscles can improve blood flow and reduce spasms and cramps.
Epsom salt baths. Epsom salt warm baths - popular home remedy treatment of many spasms and convulsions. Warm water relaxes muscles, and Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which helps relieve muscle cramps.

Medicines to relieve stomach cramps

Modern pharmaceutical market offers a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medications that can be used depending on the underlying condition causing abdominal cramps.

Aminosalicylates and corticosteroids. These drugs are used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These drugs reduce the level of acid in the stomach, which can cause cramping caused by gastritis.
Antibiotics. These drugs are prescribed to treat bacterial infections that cause gastritis and gastroenteritis.
Antispasmodic. People with irritable bowel syndrome may experience relief when taking drugs from this group.
Painkillers. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or paracetamol (Panadol) can help relieve pain.

Prevention of abdominal cramps

The following factors can help prevent stomach cramps.

Water balance. Because dehydration leads to stomach cramps, people should drink enough water every day. Especially large volumes of liquids must be drunk in hot weather and during active physical activity.
Moderate loads. It is not necessary to overload the muscles, as this can lead to spasms. A person who plays sports should give his body enough time to rest, and during training, monitor the water balance.
Proper nutrition. You should not eat those foods that can cause digestive upset, abdominal cramps or other symptoms. First of all, we are talking about spicy and fatty foods, as well as alcohol. If necessary, you can make other changes to the diet. People with gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease may find that these changes help them relieve their symptoms. For example, by limiting your fiber intake, you can reduce gas formation. Your best bet is to talk to your doctor, who can tell you which foods to eat and which to avoid.
Treatment of major diseases. Abdominal cramps that are caused by diseases such as CPTS and IBD may disappear or improve once these conditions are controlled with medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of the two.

Prospects for the treatment of abdominal cramps

Treatment prospects for abdominal cramps largely depend on the underlying cause. Spasms often resolve with minimal or no treatment. However, sometimes they may require closer medical attention.

To increase the chances of successful treatment, a person should be referred to a doctor promptly if spasms recur, worsen, or are accompanied by symptoms such as bloody stools, fever, or vomiting.

The occurrence of pain on the left side of the lower abdomen not only causes discomfort associated with a lot of discomfort, but is also serious reason for concern, as it may indicate the development of any diseases.

Vital organs are located in this part of the peritoneum, therefore, when pain appears, it is worthwhile to immediately find out the provoking factors in order to prevent serious health problems. In this article, you will learn about the main causes of this symptom, as well as what should be done when it occurs.

The main causes of pain on the left side of the lower abdomen

Pain in the lower abdomen on the left side - a reason to see a doctor

Feelings of pain in the abdomen, as a rule, are a sign of a developing pathology. What actions should be taken if the lower abdomen hurts on the left side?

Of course, do not delay the treatment and seek the help of a specialist. Only the doctor, after the examination, will establish the root causes of the deterioration in well-being.

To establish a diagnosis, the doctor needs to find out not only the location of the pain, but also its nature, intensity and duration.

There are several distinct types of pain sensations:

dull, aching;
pulling;
sharp (sharp);
stabbing.

Consider the possible causes of the appearance of various types of pain localized in this area of the peritoneum.

Dull, aching pain

Pain in the lower abdomen on the left side

May signal defects in the stomach and pancreas. Often, nausea and vomiting appear along with it, and body temperature rises. If such conditions occur, you should immediately contact a medical institution.

Usually, It's a dull pain occurs with various gynecological pathologies of the ovaries and uterus. Unpleasant sensations may appear as physical activity, and at rest, and supplemented blood secretions from the genitals.

In addition, such pain in some situations is a sign chronic cystitis, inflammation of the hemorrhoidal vein, varicose veins, tumors, defects in the sigmoid and rectum.

Nagging pain

Pulling pains of slight intensity are companions of inflammatory-purulent pathologies. urinary organs, sections of the intestine (sigmoid, straight) and extend to left leg and waist.

Often they talk about the presence strangulated hernia, as well as irritable bowel syndrome, which is accompanied by cramps, constipation or diarrhea, bloating and other symptoms.

Acute (sharp) pain

Pain in the lower abdomen on the left side: palpation

unbearably strong, sharp pain may be a sign:

colitis;
cystitis;
urolithiasis;
inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract resulting from exposure to infections (dysentery, salmonellosis, gastroenteritis, etc.);
adnexitis;
ectopic pregnancy;
oncological formations in final stages disease development.

stabbing pain

A stabbing type of pain occurs when various pathologies kidneys and intestines, accompanies the passage of kidney stones through the left ureter.

The appearance of unpleasant sensations of this kind also indicates inflammation of the lumbar, hip joints and cartilage.

Characteristics of diseases

According to statistics, the occurrence of pain in the lower left side of the peritoneum is due to diseases:

urological - from 65 - to 90%;
gynecological - from 60 - to 70%;
gastroenterological - from 50 - to 60%;
orthopedic - from 7 to 15%.

In most cases, the localization of pain in this area indicates pathologies:

spleen;
small intestine;
large intestine (left side of the transverse colon and descending colon);
organs of the genitourinary system;
pelvic bones of the skeleton, hip joint, blood vessels, cartilage, nerves, lymph nodes of the pelvic girdle.

Let us dwell in more detail on the symptoms of possible diseases of the listed organs and tissues of the human body.

Pain in pathologies of the spleen

Pain can be relieved by heat

The spleen is the organ responsible for making and destroying blood cells. At the initial stage of development various defects organ is accompanied by left-sided pain in the lower peritoneum.

This symptom appears with the following pathologies:

Acute enlargement of the spleen. The defect is promoted by inflammatory processes and disturbances in blood flow, which lead to the appearance of paroxysmal, dull pain in the left hypochondrium, often descending lower.
With the disease, it can also feel sick and vomit, the temperature rises.
Infarction of the spleen, which occurs due to blockage of the artery and the formation of a necrotic focus near the thrombus. Unpleasant sensations first occur in the left hypochondrium, gradually descending. Another sign of pathology is strong rise temperature. Without urgent surgical intervention, massive blood loss can occur, life threatening patient.
Volvulus of the spleen.
Torsion of the splenic artery is most often caused by birth defects or trauma. With this pathology, it can worsen sharply general well-being, sharp pains appear, as well as constipation, vomiting and bloating.
Abscess of the spleen is a life-threatening condition for the patient. The disease appears as a result of a purulent inflammatory process in certain parts of the organ. And in advanced cases, it can lead to peritonitis. The main signs of an abscess are acute pain in the left hypochondrium and lower peritoneum, temperature, feeling unwell, fainting.
Spleen cyst, which occurs when the organ breaks or due to abscesses.
Oncology.

Pain due to defects in the small intestine

The small intestine consists of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. As a rule, the lower peritoneum on the left side begins to hurt with defects in the jejunum, the sections of which are located on this side.

Thus, the resulting pain may be one of the symptoms:

Malabsorption. The disease occurs due to the inability of the small intestine to absorb certain foods. Bursting, pulling pain often turns into cramping. May be accompanied by frequent urge to visit the toilet, diarrhea, flatulence, rumbling in the intestines, an unpleasant aftertaste in the mouth.
Celiac disease - gluten intolerance. As a rule, it occurs in infants when cereals are introduced into complementary foods. Symptoms of the disease are similar to those of malabsorption. With improper and untimely treatment, the baby experiences lags in physical and mental development.

Pain due to defects in the large intestine

What matters is the nature of the pain and its intensity

The large intestine includes the cecum, colon, sigmoid, and rectum.

Very often, the appearance of left-sided pain in the lower abdomen is observed with defects in the descending or transverse section of the colon.

Localization of pain in this area may be a sign of:

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disease whose exact cause no one knows. According to most scientists, it occurs due to stress. With this disease, diarrhea or constipation, flatulence may occur. At the same time, pathological changes in the intestinal epithelium are not observed.
Hirschsprung's disease - the absence of nerve endings in certain areas of the intestine. Pathology is considered hereditary. It predominantly affects the male sex.
Crohn's disease - a nodular inflammation of the digestive tract, manifested by pain, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy.
Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory process in the large intestine. With this defect, changes in the intestinal epithelium occur, paroxysmal pains appear. Often, the disease is accompanied by joint pain, diarrhea interspersed with blood and pus, and fever.
Polyposis.
Intestinal obstruction. Pathology is accompanied by severe pain, flatulence, nausea and vomiting.
Intestinal volvulus.
Oncological diseases and some other pathologies.

Pain due to disorders in the genitourinary system

ultrasound diagnostics

Also, left-sided pain in the lower abdomen indicates the occurrence of:

Urolithiasis.
Cystitis - inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bladder. This pathology is characterized by aching pain, frequent urination, which occurs with painful sensations, deterioration of well-being.
Hydrouretonephrosis - expansion of the pelvis of the kidneys. Pathology occurs when there is a violation of the discharge of urine from the kidneys. With acute expansion, severe sharp pain occurs.
Allen-Masters Syndrome. The development of the disease is provoked by ruptures of the ligaments of the uterus during difficult births, abortions. It is manifested by cramping pain in the lower abdomen, left side or near the anus. Other symptoms are fatigue, painful menstruation and discomfort during intercourse.
Inflammation of the fallopian tubes. Symptoms are a sharp pain in the groin and lower peritoneum (including on the left side), vaginal discharge, painful menstruation, fever.
Endometriosis (ovaries, peritoneum, fallopian tubes, cervix, etc.). A pathology in which epithelial cells grow outside the organ.
Ectopic pregnancy.
Inflammation of the appendages and some other diseases.

Pain in diseases of the circulatory system, lymph nodes and hip joint

Often, pain in the lower abdomen on the left side is the result of diseases of the circulatory or musculoskeletal system:

Lymphadenitis - left-sided inflammation of the inguinal lymph node.
Varicose veins.
Aneurysm of the femoral artery (stratification of its walls).
Left-sided arthrosis of the hip joint, in which the mobility of the joint decreases, limping and pain appear.
Inflammatory diseases of the hip joint and some other defects.

Thus, pain in the lower abdomen on the left side can be one of the signs of various diseases. When soreness appears in combination with other signs, it is better not to self-medicate, but to seek help from specialists.

Why the left side of the lower abdomen hurts, the video will tell:

Pain localized in the lower abdomen usually signals some problems with the abdominal organs (usually with the intestines). The reasons that provoked such a symptom can be very diverse. Sometimes determining the nature of uncomfortable sensations helps to establish their nature. So, pain in the abdomen can be sharp or indistinct, penetrating or pulling, etc.

Other manifestations of the problem are of great importance in making an accurate diagnosis. In particular, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract may be accompanied by burning or itching. Moreover, not only in the abdomen, but also in the anus and genitals (most often, such reactions occur in the fair sex, and the reason for this is the restructuring of the body during ovulation). Another common symptom of impaired bowel function is traces of blood in the stool.

As is clear from all that has been said above, determining the nature and nature of the disease that provoked pain in the abdomen is not an easy task. Before the patient recognizes his accurate diagnosis and receive adequate treatment, he will have to undergo many examinations. In this article, we will only try to answer the question: what can generally cause discomfort in the abdomen, and, most importantly, what should be done if such symptoms occur?

Diseases that cause pain in the abdomen

Cramps in the abdomen indicate the development of any pathologies in the body.

It is important to understand that severe pain in the lower abdomen always indicates the development of any pathology in the body. Moreover, pain signals, transmitted through the nerve endings, irritate them.

If this process lasts long enough, the resources of the body begin to gradually deplete.

This, in turn, leads to the fact that the natural mode of operation of many organs and tissues of the body is disturbed. That is why, at the very first bouts of abdominal pain, you should try to identify the source of the problem as soon as possible.

What kind of ailments can manifest themselves in the form of such symptoms? You can make certain assumptions about this by listening to the nature of the pain.

The strength of spasms, as well as the main areas of their localization, can tell a lot about the possible source of the problem. Conventionally, most diseases that provoke pain in the abdomen can be divided into two large groups. These are ailments that affect the intestines and gynecological pathologies.

Diseases of the rectum

Hemorrhoids provoke violations of the digestive function.

If we talk about pathologies affecting the intestines, then most often abdominal pain is provoked by the development of one of the following ailments:

Anal fissures. The nature of the pain that occurs with this disease can be described as "sharp". It is localized, as a rule, in the lower parts of the rectum and in the region of the anal sphincter. In this case, the patient may note a regular increase in discomfort during the act of defecation and immediately after it. The sphincter itself usually turns red at this time. The presence of cracks is also indicated by traces of blood or mucous secretions in the patient's stool.
Haemorrhoids. The specifics of abdominal pain provoked by this disease can vary greatly depending on which rectal node is affected. So, if the pinching occurred on the internal part of the organ, the patient may feel pain in the lower part of the peritoneum. If the external node of the intestine turned out to be injured, then the pain will be localized already in the anus. Hemorrhoids often provoke digestive disorders, such as diarrhea or constipation, so the patient should be very careful about such symptoms. Other characteristic manifestations of the described disease are anal bleeding and the sensation of a foreign object in the anus.
Paraproctitis. This disease is characterized by acute pulsating pain in the lower abdomen. Paraproctitis is, first of all, a severe inflammatory process. Therefore, for this disease many of the symptoms of ordinary intoxication are typical, such as weakness, fever, and headaches.
Peritonitis. With this disease in the abdomen there is a sharp, penetrating pain. Its main focus is somewhere in the rectum. At the same time, unpleasant sensations seem to “spill” throughout the abdominal cavity.
Abscess. When such purulent inflammation occurs, the main focus of pain, as a rule, is located in the lower abdominal segment. Due to the specifics of the disease, its development is often accompanied by a sharp increase in the patient's body temperature. However, perhaps the most characteristic symptom of an abscess is the spontaneous release of purulent masses directly from the anus.
Tumors (malignant and benign). Growing, such neoplasms put pressure on the walls of the intestine and affect the nerve fibers, which, in turn, provokes pain in the lower abdomen or in the anal sphincter area.
Proctalgia. A spasm affecting the muscles of the anal ring (which leads to the development of this disease) also provokes pain. They can be described as sharp and cramping.
Prostatitis. This male disease does not directly affect the digestive tract. However, tangible discomfort in the lower abdomen (that is, in the area adjacent to the rectum) is considered one of the most characteristic symptoms of this disease.

Gynecological diseases

Abdominal pain may be associated with gynecological diseases.

The vast majority of the fair sex suffers from abdominal pain on a regular basis.

This phenomenon is associated with specific hormonal changes occurring in female body on the eve of "critical days" and, directly, during ovulation. Typical for these periods of pain in the abdomen can be described as "dull" and "pulling".

In rare cases, the sensations described can be greatly enhanced due to the individual characteristics of the body of a particular woman (for example, excessive innervation of the organs of the reproductive system).

It should, however, be understood that outside the pages of medical textbooks, such a pathology almost never occurs. In other words, if during the period of ovulation or before menstruation, a woman feels an unusually sharp pain in her stomach, this is already a deviation. This reaction can be caused by one of the following reasons:

Vessel rupture. The follicles in which female eggs mature are “connected” to the blood supply system. Therefore, when the right time comes, and the bubble bursts, it often happens that the vessel associated with it is also injured. The resulting mini-bleeding provokes irritation of the nerve endings in the abdominal cavity and, as a result, pain.
Inflammation of the genital organs. There can be many reasons for this condition, but most often these are diseases such as cystitis, mastopathy and varicose veins of the pelvic region. Often, inflammation in the genitourinary system is provoked by an ectopic pregnancy.
Tumor formations in the genital organs. As in a similar situation with the intestines, the “extra” accumulation of cells (whether they are malignant or benign) puts pressure on the nerve endings, irritating them and sending pain signals to the brain.

Do I need to call an ambulance?

If the pain in the abdomen increases, you should consult a doctor.

So, if we summarize all of the above, it becomes clear that usually abdominal pain is the result of the development of any pathologies in the body.

How to determine whether a disease that has discovered itself is life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention, or can it be waited until a planned visit to the doctor with its treatment?

Usually, observation of other symptoms demonstrated by the patient helps to answer this question. So, for the victim, it is definitely worth calling an ambulance team if he:

had already suffered several severe bouts of vomiting;
suffers from fever caused by an increase in body temperature to 38.5 (or more) degrees;
has repeatedly lost consciousness;
feels constant pressure abdominal muscles (it becomes especially noticeable on palpation);
suffers from stool disorders (usually it is "tarry" diarrhea; often with traces of blood in the feces).

If a woman suffers from abdominal pain, she should pay attention to some other factors. So, the patient should immediately contact the EMS if she:

in this moment pregnant;
recently had an abortion or other surgical operation that affected the genitals (in particular, the uterus);
had unprotected sexual contact with a potentially suspicious partner (that is, there is a possibility of developing inflammation of the appendages);
uses contraceptives in the form of a spiral (which means that he is in the “risk group”, whose representatives are more likely than others to get sick with endomeritis).

It is important to understand that even if the patient does not show any of the described side symptoms, this does not mean at all that his illness can be left to chance. Cutting in the abdomen always indicates the presence of pathology. This means that it requires an early visit to the doctor to prescribe adequate treatment.

Why there is pain in the lower abdomen in women, you will learn from the video:

Often there is pain in the lower abdomen on the left in women. In medicine, such phenomena are called pelvic pain. They are sharp, pulling, cramping, blunt, sharp. The reasons that lead to pain in the lower abdomen on the left are different. This can be caused by the presence of problems in the intestines, other organs, diseases of the joints, bones or lymph nodes that are part of the small pelvis.

It happens that it hurts on the left lower abdomen or in the lumbar region. This is typical for people who have gastroenterological, gynecological or urological diseases, as well as those who have pelvic pathologies.

The fact that it hurts in the lower abdomen on the left in women is the reason for going to the doctor in 60-70% of all cases in gynecology and in almost 80-90% of cases in urology when men go to the doctor. With problems in the intestines or other organs of the gastrointestinal tract, about 60% of all patients turn to pain in the lower abdomen on the left, and only about 15% of such calls are associated with changes in the organs that are part of the small pelvis.

Pain on the left side of the abdomen periodically occurs in 20% of the total population of the earth, which is associated with problems during internal organs. Most often they are in the intestines, in women it is caused by gynecological problems, and in men - by urological problems.

Pain in the lower abdomen on the left is associated with the presence of problems of those organs that are located here:

The spleen is a place for backup storage of blood. If it is removed, then the functions of the spleen are taken over by the liver and lymph nodes;
small intestine, loops of the jejunum are located on the left. The main problems with this organ are blockages, intussusceptions, which cause the development of an inflammatory process;
colon it hurts when its secretory function is disturbed;
a girl or woman has a uterus and genital tracts on the left, as well as parts of paired genitals and kidneys;
left hip joint.

There may be pain in the abdomen on the right or left, often with the same disease, it gives different sides. The reasons for its appearance are different. Abdominal pain can cause such diseases:

inflammatory processes;
dystrophic processes;
violation of blood circulation in certain organs;
functional changes in the intestine or other internal organs;
if cellular metabolism is disturbed in the focus of the disease.

Everything that is on the left in the abdominal cavity can cause pain if there are malfunctions in the work of these organs.

Causes associated with diseases of the spleen

At the initial stage of the disease, the fact that the lower abdomen hurts on the left side is affected by diseases of the organs located here. If chronic diseases are present, the pain may be reflective.

It can hurt on the left side of the lower abdomen from the development of pathologies of the spleen, when lymphocytic leukemia and myeloid leukemia develop.

These are oncological diseases, and their symptoms increase as the tumor grows. At first, a person simply feels a frequent malaise, aching pain in the lower abdomen occurs after eating, a person quickly eats up, and may lose weight.

As the tumor grows, a pulling pain appears, the joints begin to ache, and there is a rapid abrupt change in temperature.

A blockage of the arteries may begin, from which a spleen infarction develops, and severe pain will be felt on the left under the ribs. If there was a volvulus of the spleen, then it is partially or completely twisted nerve bundles, veins and arteries, while pain appears on the left in the abdominal cavity, the temperature increases, bloating occurs, sometimes nausea and vomiting.

Acute enlargement of the spleen is a consequence of the presence of inflammation or deterioration of the outflow of blood, with a sharp pain in the lower abdomen.

When it develops purulent inflammation, an abscess of the spleen begins. If it is multiple, then the person's temperature rises, the stomach hurts at the bottom left. When a cyst forms, it fills with mucus, which may be the result of a ruptured spleen. If the cyst is small, then it does not hurt, while a large one leads to severe pain in the abdomen when pressed on the left hypochondrium, most often it is a dull pain.

Causes of bowel disease

The small intestine consists of the ileum, jejunum, and duodenum. Most often, if the left side hurts, this is due to problems in the jejunum.

When the mucous membranes of the specified organ cannot perceive certain products, malabsorption develops. In this case, a person has frequent bowel movements, bloating occurs, and a cramping acute pain appears, after defecation it gradually subsides.

The large intestine consists of the rectum, sigmoid, colon, and caecum. The answer in this case, why the lower abdomen hurts on the left in women, will be the presence of problems with the descending and colon.

The development of irritable bowel syndrome is most often associated with stress; in women, such pain in the intestines is exacerbated during menstruation. This pathology is characterized by flatulence, constipation or diarrhea, the left side of the abdomen hurts.

With the development of Crohn's disease, there will be pain in the intestines, diarrhea, and a decrease in appetite. All this is associated with the development of nodular inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

A common disease of the large intestine is ulcerative colitis, in this case, changes in the intestinal walls occur. Most doctors believe that such colitis is caused by heredity and dysfunction. immune system person. In addition to pain in the left side of the abdomen, diarrhea with blood appears, high fever, and joints begin to ache.

With the development of intestinal diverticulosis, the formation of pathological sacs occurs, usually it develops in older people. The presence of diverticula interferes with the normal functioning of the intestines, the fermentation process begins in it, a lot of gases are formed, and unpleasant sensations appear that radiate into left side, therefore it can hurt from below on the left.

When polyps form on the mucous membranes of the colon, polyposis develops. This disrupts the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, so a person often has diarrhea, which alternates with constipation, the process of water absorption is disrupted, which leads to dehydration.

With the development of malignant tumors, stabbing pain first appears from the side where the disease develops. Over time, its intensity increases, and the focus grows.

The presence of problems in the genitourinary system

When the renal pelvis expands, the outflow of urine is disturbed or the left kidney is affected, pain appears in the left side of the lumbar region.

If during childbirth or abortion there is a rupture of the ligaments of the uterus, a woman may develop Allen-Masters syndrome, which will be accompanied by cramping pains in the lower left abdomen, this happens due to stagnation venous blood in the pelvic area.

When an unnatural proliferation of myometrial cells occurs, external genital endometriosis begins to develop. If the left ovary is affected, it will hurt on the left. Unpleasant sensations intensify during sex and menstruation, the symptoms are similar to an ectopic pregnancy.

If this process is observed on the fallopian tubes, then pain appears on palpation of the cervix, infertility develops. When the disease progresses on the vagina or labia, you can notice bloody nodules on the mucous membrane, there is severe pain in the lower abdomen, it is impossible to have sex because of discomfort.

Types of pain

The presence of dull pain most often complains of women with unilateral gynecological pathology. At inflammatory processes she is also usually dull, while the temperature rises, the woman feels general weakness.

If purulent pathologies develop, then the pain can be pulling. In the presence of oncological diseases and their progression, the pain will intensify, this is due to the fact that the tumor presses on the nerve endings.

Sharp pain usually occurs when the intestines are bursting with gases. It may indicate the development of expansion of the renal pelvis in acute form, appear after a rupture of the ligaments or if the ovary is damaged, during the passage of stones through the urinary tract.

Stitching pain indicates the development of diseases of the intestines or kidneys. It can also be problems with the lower back, cartilage or joints, it may indicate that the cyst will rupture soon.

If the lower abdomen on the left of a woman is worried or the stomach often hurts, then this may indicate the presence of serious disorders in the body. Therefore, if this bothers you often or does not go away for a long time, you should definitely consult a doctor, conduct appropriate examinations, establish the cause of such symptoms and begin effective treatment.