Stomach Cramp Remedies

Anyone who has ever had a muscle cramp remembers the pain and tightness. Muscles seize and retract, losing their flexibility and causing the body to hurt. Stomach cramps can be caused by a number of different issues---food poisoning, dehydration or ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome or diverticulitis. Curing the cramps usually comes with curing the symptoms of illness causing the cramps. But there are steps that can be taken to treat the cramps themselves.

Intake fluids

• Stomach cramps may be related to dehydration. This may be resolved by sipping clear, non-carbonated liquids. Water can help to expand the stomach and lessen the tightness related to the cramp.

Antacids

• If the cramp is high in the abdomen, it could be related to acid reflux or stomach acid. Antacids, such as Maalox or Mylanta, can help relieve the indigestion and allay the cramps.

Pepto-Bismol

• Lower abdomen pain and cramping is more likely to be a symptom of another digestive problem. The typical remedy is using a product that contains bismuth subsalicylate, which is found in Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate. This will help remedy the stomach cramps and stave off potential for diarrhea.

Acetaminophen

• Most people will try an over-the-counter pain reliever to remedy the pain related to stomach cramping. Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are often too harsh for the stomach when it is already in distress. As long as the cramps are not related to the liver, acetaminophen can be used to relieve the pain.

Mild foods

• The old wives tale is to "feed a cold." It is not recommended to feed a stomach cramp. The cramp is a contraction of the stomach muscle and anything overly acidic or rich could cause greater problems. It is advisable to not eat during a stomach cramp. When the cramping is over, it is recommended to ease back into food with things that are mild and easy on the stomach---crackers, rice, peanut butter, applesauce.