Suggest Treatment For Persistent Abdominal Cramps

Posted on Fri, 18 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 Answered on

Mon, 19 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I have for the past 20 years or so been getting cramps in my bowel. I used to get them 2 or 3 times a year, but lately about once or twice a month. The cramps are very painful and last for about 5 to 10 minutes. I try and relax my body and take slow deep breaths which seems to help shorten the time of cramp, but would like to know if I am at risk for anything serious and if there's any form of treatment.

Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (13 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Need more information

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you.

I would like to have some more information before I can give my opinion.

1. Any abdominal surgery done before?
2. Any associated symptoms like abdominal distension or vomiting?
3. Any weight loss?
4.Any tests done?
5. Any other medical illness?

Regards,
Dr.R.K.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (5 hours later)

Thank you for your reply. My answers to your questions are as follows :

1. None
2. None
3. I have lost 15 kg over a period of 6 months between August 2014 and XXXXXXX 2015.
4. None
5. None

Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (18 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Answer given below

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for the additional information.
These cramps if not associated with any other symptoms could indicate a possible subacute intestinal obstruction.
I presume the 15 kg weight loss as unintentional weight loss.

I would suggest you to get a CT scan of the abdomen done for evaluation of your symptoms.

Let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Dr.R.K

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (3 days later)

Good day Dr

Thank you for the meaningful information. I will arrange for a scan to be done. However, for your info, the weight loss was voluntary through healthy diet and exercise and is currently being maintained.

Many thanks XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (21 hours later)

Brief Answer:
CT scan as advised

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX
Thanks for the information.
As suggested earlier get a CT scan of the abdomen done.

Regards,
Dr.R.K.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj