Table of contents:
- How to treat stomach cramps at home
- 1. Cinnamon
- 2. Cloves
- 3. Coconut water
- 4. Other treatments
- How to deal with stomach cramps with drugs
Anyone can experience stomach cramps. Stomach cramps can be a sign of certain medical conditions such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, tight muscles, or dehydration. In some women, stomach cramps are often experienced during or before menstruation. Usually stomach cramps are not a cause for concern, but you still need to do something about them. Especially if the cramps don't go away. There are several ways to treat stomach cramps that you can do at home.
How to treat stomach cramps at home
There are several ways to deal with stomach cramps that you can do at home with natural ingredients. Several home remedies will treat the cause of stomach cramps and relax tightened abdominal muscles.
If you experience stomach cramps while pregnant, talk to your doctor first before trying home remedies. Some home treatments may not be safe during pregnancy.
Here are some natural ingredients that can be a way to treat stomach cramps at home.
1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains antioxidants which can help reduce the risk of irritation and damage to the digestive tract. Some of the antioxidants contained are eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, and linalool.
In addition, cinnamon can also help reduce belching, flatulence, bloating, and cramps. Cinnamon can also neutralize stomach acid to reduce heartburn and indigestion.
You can add ground cinnamon or whole cinnamon to your cooking. If you like drinking tea, you can also mix cinnamon with boiling water to make tea. Do this 2 or 3 times a day to treat stomach cramps.
2. Cloves
Cloves contain substances that help reduce gas in the stomach and increase gastric secretions. It can speed up slow digestion, which can reduce pressure and stomach cramps.
You can mix 1 or 2 teaspoons of clove powder with 1 teaspoon of honey once a day before going to bed.
3. Coconut water
Drinking 2 glasses of coconut water every 4-6 hours can be a way to deal with stomach cramps. This is because coconut water is high in potassium and magnesium, which can reduce the relief of stomach upset symptoms, including stomach cramps, aches, and muscle spasms.
4. Other treatments
- Hot water compress. Compress your stomach with a towel soaked in hot water. This can help relax your abdominal muscles.
- Abdominal massage can help soothe cramped muscles.
- Drink chamomile tea, which can relieve stomach pain and treat stomach cramps. It is also considered a home remedy for flatulence.
- If stomach cramps are caused by dehydration, replenish the lost electrolytes by drinking sports drinks or eating bananas. However, if you have a history of kidney failure, consult your doctor first.
- If stomach cramps are caused by muscle tension, reduce physical activity and give your abdominal muscles a break first.
How to deal with stomach cramps with drugs
If home remedies don't work or if they get worse, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers. Commonly used painkillers are ibuprofen or acetaminophen (paracetamol).
Take these drugs according to the dosage stated on the drug package. Also be aware of the possible side effects of these medications. Ibuprofen and similar drugs can cause stomach ulcers and kidney damage if taken in excess.
While acetaminophen is taken in excess can cause liver damage and even liver failure. If you feel you need to take these drugs more than the recommended dose, you should first consult with your doctor.
Stomach cramps are sometimes caused by stomach acid which causes gastritis. In this case, antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be used as a way to treat your stomach cramps and reduce stomach acid.
If the methods mentioned above do not relieve your stomach cramps, consult a doctor immediately to get the right treatment and diagnosis.
