Stomach cramps or abdominal spasms
Cramps, pains and spasms in the stomach or abdominal area are key symptoms of IBS.
What is causing the pain?
When our guts are disrupted, constipation, diarrhoea and cramps can all be caused as the gut muscle starts contracting abnormally. These disruptions to our digestive system may be caused by diet, stress, medication and not drinking enough fluids.
For women, it is quite common to experience pronounced IBS symptoms around the time of menstruation – approximately a third of women experience gas, diarrhoea or constipation.
What can I do to tackle stomach and bowel cramps and spasms associated with IBS?
Talk to your GP about the symptoms, and let them know about your diet, lifestyle and stress levels. Your GP should be able to identify triggers, and perhaps other symptoms of IBS that are related to cramps and spasms. It may be that simple changes to your diet or daily routine can help make cramps and spasms far more manageable.
There are also treatments available, such as medicine to relieve stomach cramps, which you can discuss with your doctor once you have a better understanding of the causes. For example, IMODIUM® IBS Relief for diarrhoea, or COLPERMIN® IBS Relief which can relieve all IBS bowel symptoms. Both are available without prescription, but always talk to your GP first.