Abdomen and muscle spasms
Abdominal pain is the type of pain that one experiences between the chest and groin i.e. around the region of the stomach. Pain in the abdomen may be classified as either:
Generalized pain which can be due to a stomach virus, indigestion or gas. Severe pain may be caused by a blockage of the intestines.
Localized pain is diagnosed if the pain occurs only in one area of the stomach, mostly due to appendix or stomach / gallbladder infections
Cramp-like pain can be due to gas and bloating and is often followed by diarrhoea.
Colicky pain comes in waves, beginning and ending suddenly and is often severe. It can occur due to kidney stones and gallstones.
Abdominal pain can also be due to Constipation, Irritable bowel syndrome, Food poisoning or food allergies, Stomach flu or other reasons like pancreatitis, ulcers, indigestion, GERD or cancer of the stomach.
Smooth muscles are responsible for the movement of portions of hollow structures inside the body like the muscles that line the stomach, oesophagus, intestines and the muscles of the uterus.
Muscle spasm and pain happens due to muscle fatigue, dehydration and depletion of electrolytes. It also occurs if the muscle has been previously injured or strained, overstretched or if it has been held in the same position for a prolonged period of time. The muscle cell may run out of energy and fluid leading to a forceful contraction. Muscle spasms occur suddenly, are usually short-lived and often painful.
For treating abdominal pain and muscles that have been damaged or strained, medications may be required for pain relief like anti-inflammatories, narcotics and muscle relaxants.
