10 Causes of Stomach Cramps

By james

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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Stomach cramps are an uncomfortable condition that can cause considerable pain in the abdomen area. While cramps are generally used to describe involuntary muscle contractions, the term stomach cramps is often applied to other types of pain in the area, including those caused by muscle spasms.

Stomach cramps can be caused by a wide range of problems. While they are not necessarily dangerous in themselves, they can be a sign of an underlying problem that requires medical attention.

While it is often easy for people to overlook stomach cramps as not being serious, you should arrange to see a doctor if they are severe.

Cause #1: Reflux

At the end of the esophagus where it meets the stomach is a muscle that clamps tightly shut after food has been allowed to pass through it. This is known as the lower esophageal sphincter and it has the job of keeping food and the stomach’s acidic juices inside the stomach.

Reflux is a condition where this muscle does not close properly, allowing digestive juices to rise up the esophagus. This is a condition known as reflux. It is also commonly known as heartburn because of the way it burns the soft tissues of the esophagus. It can be very unpleasant and it can also lead to cramps.