Upper Abdominal Cramps, Recognize the Causes and How to Overcome Them
Upper abdominal cramps most often occur due to stomach ulcers. Although generally only temporary and can subside with simple treatment, cramps in the upper abdomen that arise due to certain diseases require medical treatment.
Upper abdominal cramps are one of the most common complaints. To find out the cause, the doctor will find out which organ or body part is affected so that he can provide the right treatment.
People who experience stomach cramps in the upper part usually experience symptoms in the form of frequent nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. Some of these symptoms may also be accompanied by other symptoms, depending on the underlying cause
Various Causes of Upper Abdominal Cramps
There are various conditions that can cause upper abdominal cramps, namely:
1. Heartburn
Heartburn or dyspepsia is a common condition that causes cramps in the upper abdomen. Symptoms that can appear are bloating, frequent belching, nausea, and vomiting
Several factors can trigger this condition, such as consuming spicy, fatty, or highly acidic foods, skipping meals, taking certain medications, and drinking too much alcoholic or caffeinated drinks.
2. GERD
Upper abdominal cramps can be a symptom of GERD. This condition occurs when stomach acid rises into the esophagus that connects the mouth and stomach
As a result, the lining of the esophagus becomes irritated and causes pain in the upper abdomen to the chest. Apart from that, GERD is also characterized by the appearance of a burning sensation in the chest, pain when swallowing, and a lump in the throat.
3. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, cramps in the upper abdomen are a complaint that often occurs as a result of the upper abdominal organs being pushed along with the growth of the fetus. However, if the pain you feel is getting worse and persists, you should immediately do an examination to confirm the condition of the pregnancy
4. Abdominal muscle tension
Tension in the abdominal muscles can cause pain and cramps in the upper abdomen. This condition is caused by overuse of muscles or repetitive movements made during sports, causing muscle tissue to stretch or tear.
In addition, muscle tension can also be caused by prolonged coughing or sneezing, lifting heavy loads too often, improper posture during sports, accidents, and excessive exercise.
5. Intestinal obstruction
Intestinal obstruction can also cause upper abdominal cramps. This disease appears due to a blockage in the intestine. If left unchecked, the intestine can be damaged and cannot carry out its functions properly.When the damage occurs in the large intestine which is located at the top of the stomach, cramps or upper abdominal pain can be very severe. Sufferers also cannot defecate or pass gas
6. Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis can cause symptoms in the form of upper abdominal pain which is usually felt under the ribs. Initially, the pain may be mild, but it may worsen after the sufferer eats, drinks, or lies down. This pain can last several days and radiate to the back
Aside from abdominal pain, acute pancreatitis can also cause other symptoms such as fever, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, swollen stomach, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and a faster pulse.
7. Hepatitis
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a viral infection, drugs, alcoholic beverages, genetic disorders, or autoimmune diseases. This condition can trigger pain in the upper right part of the stomach, to be precise where the liver is located
In addition, nausea, vomiting, fever, tiredness, dark urine, jaundice, and decreased appetite can also be symptoms of hepatitis.
How to Overcome Upper Abdominal Cramps
How to deal with stomach cramps can be adjusted to the cause. If stomach cramps are caused by minor problems, such as stomach ulcers, you can do simple treatments at home, such as:
- Avoid foods that are too spicy, sour, and fatty
- Sufficient water needs
- Eat small portions, but often
- Stay away from gassy foods
- Consuming fruits and vegetables
- Compress the stomach with warm water
- Drink warm ginger to relax the digestive tract muscles
If the pain is caused by stomach ulcers or GERD, complaints can be relieved by taking antacids that are sold in pharmacies.
Upper abdominal cramps that are persistent and do not subside with the above treatments or are accompanied by symptoms that lead to serious illness, immediately consult a doctor so that appropriate treatment can be given according to the cause.
Label : Health
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