Definition
Most people suffer from stomach cramps at least once in their lives. The person affected has the feeling that the entire stomach area contracts. It is not uncommon to adopt a bent posture in order to relieve the region.
Since the stomach cramps are very unpleasant, quick help is needed to relieve the symptoms. Below are some possibilities that can help with stomach cramps. General information about stomach cramps can be found here: Stomach cramps
Therapy
The treatment of stomach cramps depends on the underlying cause. If possible, this should be clarified by a doctor beforehand – especially if the cramps have existed for a long time or recur repeatedly. In general, there are various ways of treating stomach cramps.
If the cramps do not have a serious cause, various home remedies can provide effective relief. For example, if the abdominal cramps are caused by a bacterial infection of the stomach lining (e.g. Helicobacter pylori), antibiotics and stomach acid inhibitors (e.g. omeprazole) are used therapeutically.
This reduces the production of stomach acid, allowing the irritated mucous membrane to heal better. The antibiotic causes the bacteria to die. In addition, antispasmodic drugs (e.g. Buscopan) can be used to combat the cramps.
These are often available over the counter from the pharmacy. Painkillers can also be used temporarily for stomach cramps, but it should be noted that most conventional painkillers attack the stomach lining and can therefore be counterproductive in the case of stomach cramps. Ultimately, it is essential to find out the trigger for stomach cramps.
If certain foods have been consumed before, if there has been a lot of stress recently or if another trigger can be identified, it should be avoided if possible. In the case of stress, it is important to seek a balance, as this is the only way to prevent recurring stress-related stomach cramps. In the case of stomach cramps, which do not have a more serious cause, it is always a good idea to try to get the symptoms under control with home remedies.
A simple but very effective home remedy for stomach cramps is the hot-water bottle. It should not be too hot, but pleasantly warm and should be placed on the stomach area. Alternatively, a cherry stone cushion or warm compresses can be used.
The heat loosens the cramped muscles and promotes blood circulation. Often the complaints can be significantly improved. Also gladly used are herbal teas.
Herbal teas are especially helpful for stomach cramps, especially camomile, fennel, caraway, liquorice root and peppermint tea. On the one hand, the heat of the teas also has an antispasmodic effect, and on the other hand, plants such as peppermint have an antispasmodic effect. Ginger tea is also often used for stomach ailments.
If the person concerned suffers from heartburn or excessive stomach acid production, peppermint tea should not be used, as peppermint also loosens the muscle that separates the esophagus and stomach. The heartburn can be intensified by peppermint. The plants, which can be used as tea against stomach cramps, are often also available in other preparations.
For example, in the form of caraway oil or fennel drops. These preparations can also be taken for stomach cramps. Another well-tried remedy for various digestive problems and stomach cramps is healing clay.
This can be taken in capsule form or as a powder and has a calming effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Healing earth can also be used for wraps. To do this, it is mixed with warm water or herbal tea and applied to a cloth.
This is then placed on the stomach area – just like a hot-water bottle or a cherry stone cushion. It is also important to ensure that the food is easily digestible in case of stomach cramps. Fat-rich food and sweets should be avoided.
The same applies to alcohol, cigarettes and coffee. These only irritate the stomach even more. Instead, well-tolerated foods should be consumed, for example steamed vegetables, broth, potatoes and rice. Food should preferably be divided into several small meals a day, so that the gastrointestinal tract is not overloaded with large amounts of food at once.
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