State your health » Cramps

Are You Suffering From Heat Cramps?

Editor — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:15:03 +0000

Generally, heat cramps can be called as painful, brief muscle cramps wherein the muscles may spasm or jerk involuntarily. Heat cramps may occur during exercise or work in a hot environment or they may start a few hours later. Heat cramps mostly involve muscles that are fatigued by heavy work like calves, thighs, and shoulders. One is most at risk if one is doing work or activities in a hot environment–mostly during the first few days of an activity to which one is not used to. One is also at risk if one sweats a great deal during exercise and drinks large amounts of water or other fluids that lack salt. The symptoms of heat cramps are muscle spasms, painful, involuntary, brief, intermittent and usually self-limited (go away on their own).

Heat Cramps Causes
Though the exact cause of heat cramps is unknown, they are probably related to electrolyte problems. Essential minerals, like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, are known as electrolytes. These undergo chemical changes in your tissues and in case of an imbalance, problems can be caused.

When to Seek Medical Care -
As any patient would know, heat cramps can be quite painful. One should consider seeking medical attention if the symptoms do not go away with rest and even after restoring fluid and electrolytes. One must consult a doctor in case of the following conditions:

1. If one is unable to drink sufficient fluids due to nausea or vomiting. In such a case, one may need IV rehydration with normal saline.

2. Though rarely, heat cramps can even accompany heat exhaustion.

3. If one has more severe symptoms of heat illness, including dizziness, malaise, shortness of breath, fatigue, vomiting, headache, and high temperatures (greater than 104F), call the doctor for instructions.

Self-Care At Home For Heat Cramps -

As already mentioned, heat cramps generally go away without any treatment, only with some rest. They also seem to respond well to home care like resting in a cool place and drink fluid mixed with salt (making a salt solution by mixing 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon table salt dissolved in a quart of water). Even drinking commercially available electrolyte beverages will provide adequate dietary salt intake.

Ovulation cramp

Editor — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:30:10 +0000

If one is trying to get pregnant, the time you'll be most fertile begins one day prior to the day you ovulate and lasts for three days after you ovulate. Ovulation is the procedure by which your body releases one or more eggs from your ovary. If the egg is fertilized and productively implants, you're pregnant. There are numerous signs that could indicate you're ovulating. Learn to identify these changes, and you can boost the odds of getting pregnant by having sexual intercourse during this optimal time. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), without delay following ovulation most women experience a slight but detectable rise in their normal body temperature. By monitoring your basal body temperature first thing in the morning ahead of you rise on a daily basis, and tracking the results on a basal body temperature chart, it's possible to determine that ovulation has occurred. Though, conditions such as fever, restless sleep, and exertion can affect the accuracy of the temperature readings.

More of the cramp

According to ACOG, another way to detect imminent ovulation is to monitor your vaginal secretions or cervical mucus by checking regularly for mucus at the opening of the vagina. In general, your vagina produces the least amount of secretions right away following the conclusion of your menstrual cycle. According to ACOG, another way to detect impending ovulation is to monitor your vaginal secretions or cervical mucus by checking frequently for mucus at the opening of the vagina. In general, your vagina produces the least amount of secretions right away following the conclusion of your menstrual cycle.

What is ovulation actually?

Ovulation is a phase of the female menstrual cycle, which involves the let go of an egg from one of the ovaries. For most women, ovulation occurs about once every month until menopause, spaced out from episodes of pregnancy and breastfeeding. About one in five women experience pain and uneasiness during ovulation. The duration of the pain varies from one woman to the after that, but ranges from a few minutes to 48 hours. In most cases, ovulation pain doesn't mean that anything is wrong. However, severe pain may sometimes be symptomatic of gynecological circumstances including endometriosis. See your doctor if your ovulation pain lasts longer than three days or is linked with other unusual menstrual symptoms, such as heavy bleeding. Ovulation pain is also well-known as mid-cycle pain and mittelschmerz.

Cramps after period

Editor — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:15:03 +0000

One may feel no more than a fleeting discomfort from your period, or you could be doubled up by it. Generally the pain comes in cramp-like spasms. It could start in the inferior abdomen, and may radiate up the spine and down the legs, or center in your lower back. If you get it actually badly you may feel dizzy or nauseous, and get diarrhea or vomit. If this occurs you should go and see your doctor. Most women find the pain generally comes on a few hours before their periods start and begins to ease once the flow begins. But in a few, pain continues into the next and even the third day of their period. Each month the lining of the uterus builds up in training for a possible pregnancy. If a pregnancy occurs, the fertilized egg attaches itself to the inside layer to be nourished as it develops into a baby.

About the cramps that occur after the periods

If the egg is not fertilized, the lining is not required. It breaks down and hormones called prostaglandins are free. These trigger the muscles of the uterus to agreement and squeeze the lining out. The muscles are the similar ones that push a baby out during childbirth, so they are very strong. Some women may have senior levels of prostaglandins and this is thought to be what causes painful muscle spasms. There are many ways to assist relieve menstrual cramps. The trick is to find single that works for you. Lie down if likely at the first sign of pain, and place a warm heating pad on your abdomen. A calming, warm bath may also help. Seek recommendation from your pharmacist about suitable painkillers.

Helpful relief

Over the counteract medications may be very helpful. For highest relief, take painkillers before the pain gets too bad. Manipulate can ease menstrual cramps. Quietly rub your abdomen, or ask your partner to massage your back. Exercise routines, practiced all through your cycle, but particularly a few days before the onset of your period may help to decrease pain by lowering your levels of prostaglandins. Exercise also help to keep the blood flowing in your pelvis, easing that heavy, bloated feeling. Menstrual cramps are from time to time caused, or made worse, by other conditions. This is recognized as secondary dysmenorrhea. If you abruptly start to experience more pain than usual or notice a change in your periods, you should contact your doctor. Older women in exacting should consult their doctors if their pain does not respond to treatment.

Premenstrual cramps

Editor — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 22:00:19 +0000

During a woman's menstrual cycle, changes take place in the body that can trigger painful cramping, mood swings, and many other symptoms. As every woman is different, no single treatment effectively relieves all PMS symptoms in all women. Premenstrual syndrome is a badly understood complex of symptoms occurring a week to ten days before the start of each menstrual cycle. When that time of the month comes closer, several women dread the onset of PMS. In medical terms, PMS, or premenstrual stress syndrome, is characterized by a series of symptoms that come out just prior to menstrual bleeding during the menstrual cycle. PMS symptoms comprise irritability, depression, mood swings, and cramping. Menstrual cramping during PMS is one of the most discomforting symptoms, and there is a diversity of treatments for women that are helpful in this and other PMS-related conditions.

About the premenstrual cramps

PMS hits women with opposed severities and differing side effects. Diet, vitamin and mineral supplements, prescription drugs, and alternative medicines can all be taken to have an effect on PMS in women. Because of the regularity of PMS occurrence, many women keep away from prescription medications that have to be taken every month in favor of herbal remedies and nutritional supplements. Natural health remedies for PMS are generally safe with little or no side effects, while stopping discomfort. Search online for PMS product reviews and recommendations that may be more valuable for your PMS. Eighty five percent of women are bothered by at slightest one physical or emotional symptom between ovulation and menstruation. When these symptoms get in the way with your normal activities and interaction, it is called Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS.

Symptoms

Because of the complexity of women's endocrine systems, researchers still don't know precisely why some women suffer from PMS and some don't. It can hit women at any time before menopause, frequently changing in intensity and harshness over time. Characteristically, it is the most severe in women in their twenties and thirties. As it is associated with ovulation, women who are pregnant, taking birth-control pills, and in menopause do not experience PMS. Though, there are similar hormone-related symptoms that can affect women who are not ovulating. Symptoms can change month to month; they can be aggravated by environmental factors such as stress and illness. There are over 150 well-known symptoms of PMS. Some of the most familiar are headache, fatigue, bloating, weight gain and water-retention, swollen and tender breasts, depression and anxiety, mood swings, muscle cramps, acne, food cravings, decreased libido, and disruption in sleep patterns.

Cramp treatment

Editor — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:45:04 +0000

Muscle cramp and spasm are a bothersome condition that involves a sudden, involuntary contraction and tightening of a muscle that will not immediately relax. Muscle cramps and spasms can grip part or all of a muscle, or a number of muscles within a muscle group and even though a spasm or cramp can occur in just about any muscle. The most familiar muscle groups affected are, the lower leg and calf muscles, the upper leg, including the hamstrings and quadriceps, the feet and hands. Muscle cramps and spasms can variety in intensity from a slight twitch to a severe, agonizing contraction. They can last wherever from a few seconds to over 15 minutes and can generally be seen visibly by the way the muscle twitches and moves under the skin.

Causes and treatment

There are a figure of factors that contribute to muscle cramps and spasms, the main ones being the poor flexibility and tight muscles, muscle fatigue and overuse, dehydration, and electrolyte and mineral depletion. A numeral of other factors include working or exercising in high heat and humidity, inadequate blood supply, injury or muscle strain and excessive use of alcohol, drugs and medication. Muscle cramps and spasms will generally go away on their own but there are a few important steps you can take to decrease the severity and duration of them. You just have to discontinue the activity that triggered the cramp in the first place. Then quietly stretch the effected muscle or muscle group. Always stay the effected areas moving with light activity and gentle massage. Always carry on applying heat and massage to help promote blood flow.

Prevention

One of the most helpful things you can do to help prevent muscle cramps and spasms is to work on improving your overall general health and fitness. Improving your cardiovascular fitness will get better the delivery of blood to your muscles, which will ensure that they have adequate amounts of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Another key activity that will assist to prevent cramps and spasms is stretching. Keeping your muscles loose and flexible will help to discontinue them from tightening up and cramping. Be sure to stretch the muscles groups that are most flat to cramping both before and after exercise or strenuous physical activity. The other significant activity that is very effective in helping to prevent cramp is ensuring adequate hydration and electrolyte replenishment. In universal you should be consuming at least 8 to 10 glasses of filtered water a day and more if you're involved in strenuous physical activity or live and work in high heat and humidity.

Abdominal Cramps -

Editor — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 10:31:57 +0000

What is an abdominal cramp?

The pain, especially due to contraction of a muscle that occurs in the abdomen region of the body. It is also called belly ache or abdominal pain.

About abdominal cramp -
It may occur in any organ of the abdomen, in any digestion related organ like stomach, small or large intestine, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, aorta (the large blood vessel running down inside the abdomen), appendix or kidneys. It may even start in some other region like the chest or pelvic region. The intensity of the abdominal pain may differ as per the causes. Mild cramps may be caused due to gas or cramp of viral gastroenteritis. In some life threatening conditions like colon cancer or appendicitis in its early stage, there may be a mild pain or no pain at all.

What causes abdominal cramp?
Some causes are not very serious like painful menstruation, gastritis (inflammation in the lining of the stomach), mild food poisoning, mild diarrhea, stress related gastrointestinal upset. Other causes like appendicitis, serious food poisoning, gall bladder attacks, ulcerative colitis and parasitic infections can be serious.

Home remedies for abdominal cramps -
Sufficient amount of water or other fluids has to be consumed. In case of mild pain and vomiting, solid food has to be avoided for the first few hours and then once the pain and vomiting ceases, mild food can be consumed. If the pain is intense, or after meals, or in case of heartburn or indigestion, antacids may be taken. It is advisable to avoid citrus fruits, high fat content food, fried stuffs, tomatoes, coffee, tea or alcoholic beverages. H2 blockers (like Tagamet, Pepcid, Zantac) may also be tried. The physician has to be contacted if the situation worsens. Medications like Aspirin, Ibuprofen and other narcotic pain medications should not be taken without a prescription from the physician.

Prevention of abdominal pain -
These simple yet effective measures can be taken to keep abdominal cramps at bay -

1. Consuming well balanced and high fiber diet and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
2. Consuming sufficient quantities of water.
3. Eating small amount of foods at regular intervals.
4. Avoiding foods causing gas.
5. Maintaining regular exercise regimen.

Severe cramps

Editor — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:00:09 +0000

By endometriosis biopsy I'm guessing you mean an endometrial biopsy, a test in which the doctor inserts a small device through the cervix into the uterine cavity in order to get a taster of the uterine lining tissue. An endometrial biopsy does not diagnose endometriosis. The only way to diagnose endometriosis for certain is to perform a laparoscopy, a surgical procedure in which the doctor inserts a telescope through a tiny slit in your belly button to view your pelvic organs directly. Severe pains and cramps around the time of your period can be because of endometriosis, a condition in which the uterine lining tissue gets outside the uterine cavity, lands in places in doesn't belong and causes pain.

Possibilities of severe cramps

Likelihood is adenomyosis, in which the uterine lining tissue penetrates into the wall of the uterus, again causing crampy pain; often bleeding is heavy with adenomyosis. A third likelihood is abnormal production of prostaglandins by your uterus, again causing cramps. Frequently, birth control pills plus a medication that inhibits prostaglandins are used to provide relief from severe cramps. This is often the first step and most of the time is very effective. If this conservative measure fails, then we will sometimes advocate a laparoscopy so we can look inside to see what is going on. During a laparoscopy, endometriosis can be diagnosed and treated, and nerves that go into the back of the uterus, transmitting pain signals, might be cut to provide relief.

Conclusion

As far as the headaches go, some women do experience migraine headaches connected to their menstrual cycles. These are from time to time difficult to treat and require a lot of communication between you and your doctor and often some trial and error in finding the best therapy for you. The most excellent person for you to see regarding your cramps is your gynecologist. This is amazing we deal with every day. Often medical therapy like birth control pills and a medicine like Anaprox will do the trick; from time to time a laparoscopy is needed. You will require it to discuss your options with your doctor.

The menstrual cramp relief

Editor — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:16:32 +0000

The menstrual cramps are medically termed as dysmenorrhea. The rupturing of the ovarian follicle begins the menstrual cycle. This is under the effect of the hormone estrogen. There is another hormone, which is functioning called the Proglandins, which causes a certain amount of the swellings.

The types;
There are majority two types; the Primary and the Secondary.
The primary is caused by the regulation of the Proglandins.These result in the pain and inflammations in the uterine walls. This triggers the uterine contractions also.

The Secondary; this is due to the following reasons
Endometriosis; the innermost lining of the uterus is the endometrium and the disfuntion in the layer is called the endometriosis. This arises due to the faulty implantation of the tissues outside the uterus. This normally occurs on the fallopian tube. This results into pain.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is the result of the transmissio0n of bacteria through sexual routes. This may also arise due to unsafe intercourse or multiple partners.
Use of the Intra-uterine device (IUD); the device is made of plastic and it is 'T' shaped. This is due to the insertion of the mechanical barriers in the uterus, which causes the inflammations, swellings and the pain the walls.

Uterine fibroids and uterine polyps: The fibroids are normally termed as the begnin tumor. This is protected in a capsule. These generally are the protrusions in the uterine walls.

The effects
This may also result into early onset of Puberty and a medical history of painful menstruation

The screening and the diagnosis;

The diagonos is the visual display of the functioning of ones reproductive organs.
Secondary cramps can be detected by; Imaging testing; this include the computerized tommography (CT) and the MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Laproscopy; this involves of the injection of the fiber-optic tubes in the uterus to view the tumors in the pelvic cavity.
Hysteroscopy; the insertion of a tube in the cervix and vagina to view the uterus

Complimentary relief
The complimentary cure for this malfunction could be yoga, meditation and certain de-stressing exercises. The technique of acupuncture is also found to be relieving. The best form of self-care methods would be regular check-up and adequate sleep.

Cramps during ovulation

Editor — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:03:03 +0000

Ovulation is a stage of the female menstrual cycle, which involves the release of an egg from one of the ovaries. For most women, ovulation takes place about once every month until menopause, apart from episodes of pregnancy and breastfeeding. About one in five women experience pain and discomfort all through ovulation. The duration of the pain varies from one woman to the after that, but ranges from a few minutes to 48 hours. In most cases, ovulation pain doesn't mean that whatever thing is wrong. However, brutal pain may sometimes be symptomatic of gynecological conditions including endometriosis. See your doctor if your ovulation cramp lasts longer than three days or is associated with other unusual menstrual symptoms, such as heavy bleeding. Ovulation cramp is also known as mid-cycle pain and mittelschmerz.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ovulation cramp can include, pain in the lower abdomen, just inside the hip bone. The pain classically occurs about two weeks before the menstrual period is due. The pain is felt on the right or left side, depending on which ovary is producing an egg. The pain may switch from one side to the other from one cycle to the next, or remain on one side for a few cycles. The pain sensation varies between individuals. As for example, it could feel like uncomfortable pressure, twinges, sharp pains or cramps. The duration of the cramp may range anywhere from a minute to 48 hours.

Theories on possible causes

The exact reason of ovulation pain is not clear, but theories include emerging follicle are the hormones that prompt the ovaries to produce around 20 follicles. Each follicle contains an immature egg but only one follicle by and large survives to maturity. It is hypothetical that ovulation pain is caused because of the expanding follicle which stretches the membrane of the ovary. Ruptured follicle is a circumstance wherein when the egg is mature, it bursts from the follicle. This may cause slight bleeding. The peritoneum might be irritated by the blood or fluids from the ruptured follicle and this may trigger the pain.

Learning about muscle cramps

Editor — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:48:22 +0000

What Are Muscle Cramps?

A cramp can be defined as an involuntary and forcibly contracted muscle that does not relax. Cramps may affect any muscle under your voluntary control that is skeletal muscle. Muscles that span two joints are the ones that are most prone to cramping. Cramps can involve a part or all of muscle, or even several muscles in a group. The most commonly affected muscle groups are back of lower leg/calf, back of thigh (hamstrings) and front of thigh (quadriceps). Also, cramps in the feet, hands, arms, abdomen and along the rib cage are very common.

Muscle cramps can range in intensity from a slight tic to highly agonizing pain. A cramping muscle may feel hard to the touch and/or appear visibly distorted or sometimes twitch beneath the skin. It may last a few seconds to 15 minutes or longer. Also it might recur multiple times before it actually goes away.

Treating Muscle Cramps

Generally, cramps go away on their own without the need for seeing a doctor. However one cant follow a few self-care tips to avoid them in future. These would include stopping whatever activity triggered the cramp and working towards better overall fitness. Doing regular flexibility exercises before and after you work out to stretch muscle groups most prone to cramping can be very helpful. Always warm up before stretching.

Certain stretches can also do a world of good for your cramping muscles. These include calf muscle stretch, hamstring muscle stretch and quadriceps muscle stretch.

1. Calf muscle stretch: In a standing lunge with both feet pointed forward, then straighten the rear leg.

2. Hamstring muscle stretch: Sit with one leg folded in and the other straight out, foot upright and toes, ankle relaxed. Lean forward slightly and touch the foot of straightened leg.

3. Quadriceps muscle stretch: While standing, hold the top of your foot with opposite hand and gently pull heel toward buttocks.

4. Release each stretch after holding briefly.

For treating a cramp that lasts long or refuses to go away, gently stretch and massage the cramping muscle, holding it in stretched position till the cramp stops. Another of treating the cramp is applying heat to tense or tight muscles, or cold to sore or tender muscles.

Side cramps

Editor — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:14:32 +0000

A side ache or cramp, also sometimes known as a stitch, is a spasm in the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a muscle that stretches across your chest cavity below your lungs. It expands downwards when we inhale as well as contracts upwards when we exhale. Stitches can take place when we run too fast or breathe rapidly without getting enough air into our lungs during inhalation, or when we don't expel enough air during exhalation. Side cramps are not caused by a lack of potassium or dehydration, as leg cramps frequently are. When we exercise at an ease pace and can carry on a conversation, breathing is rarely a problem. As our pace increases, we need more oxygen furthermore our breathing becomes more rapid. Pressing on your side can assist to relieve the discomfort of a cramp, but learning a technique called 'belly breathing' is a way to counteract stitches and prevent them from occurring.

More of the side cramps

To belly breathe, agreement your abdominal muscles and pull your stomach in as you exhale. Force as much air as likely out of your lungs, and then inhale as much as you can. As you inhale, you should sense your abs swell as your diaphragm stretches downwards, allowing your lungs to fully expand. This method is similar to the diaphragmatic breathing that singers use to hold a note for a long time. When you sense a stitch coming on, begin belly breathing and continue until your pace slows. Focus mostly on the exhalation and the contraction of your abs. The stronger your abs, the easier it is to do this type of breathing. It's alright if your breath sounds loud and labored. Once your pace has slowed, you can begin breathing usually again.

Conclusion

Most of us acknowledge them at one time or another. It is chiefly common in runners and has been known to slow some down to a walk until the pain subsides. Up until lately there was no clear explanation for the cause of this annoying cramp. Now researchers consider that the side stitch is caused by stretching the ligaments that extend from the diaphragm to the internal organs, particularly the liver. The jarring motion of organization while breathing in and out stretches these ligaments. Runners are inclined to exhale every two or four steps. The majority people exhale as the left foot hits the ground, but some people exhale when the right foot hits the ground. It is the later group who seem more prone to get side stitches. Exhaling when the right foot hits the earth causes greater forces on the liver.

Toe cramps

Editor — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 02:50:08 +0000

There are many probable reasons for this, one of them being restless leg syndrome. Restless leg syndrome, mainly at night, is not uncommon. The legs will tickle or go into spasm. Moving them brings only brief relief. Seconds or minutes later, the tempting urge to move returns back. It can be so maddening that it hinders sleep and causes frequent waking. The restlessness is linked with twitching leg muscles, though this is not always obvious.

Cause of toe cramps

The precise cause of restless legs is not clear, although the nervous and circulatory systems are involved. It is connected to spasms in the arteries and in the muscles. It is often linked with hypersensitive, tense nerves. Stress and substances like coffee or colas can annoy the nervous system. Withdrawal from medications causes tension and nervous anxiety which will make worse restless legs. This state is more common during pregnancy and in those who smoke because of their restricting effect on circulation. The birth control pill also adds up to circulatory problems. Restless leg syndrome is connected to poor absorption of folic acid as a result of malabsorption syndrome. Many with this state have either poor or no ability to absorb folic acid from the foods they eat.

Conclusion

Restless leg syndrome can be an indication of a masked food allergy. A food allergy is the body's reply, through the immune system, to a food which it reacts to as foreign or toxic. The more common masked or delayed allergies are to wheat, corn, milk and other common foods. The food allergens are so methodically enmeshed in the diet that the chances of avoiding them and accidentally discovering the cause of the symptoms are remote. Just like with leg cramps, a number of conditions can reason night-time cramping of the toes: structural disorders, dystonias, myalgias, restless leg syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, and peripheral vascular disease. Treatment should be tailored specially to the problem if it can be elucidated. If this isn't possible, however, and serious correctable pathology has been ruled out, then options take in quinine sulphate, tricyclic antidepressants and neurontin. None are unsurprisingly beneficial but they're worth assessing on a trial basis.

Neck Cramps

Editor — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 05:37:39 +0000

Cramps and Neck Cramps

A cramp is a painful, unpleasant sensation that is caused due to the contraction of muscles. They can be caused due to cold, overexertion, and illness or poisoning.

There are two main causes of cramp – inadequate oygenation of the muscles and the lack of water or salt.

Neck Cramps

Neck (also called cervical spine) comprises of vertebrae beginning in the upper torso and ending at the base of the skull. The bony vertebrae and the ligaments support the spine and the muscles along this area helps in supporting and easy motion. Since the neck supports the head and is has lesser support compared to other areas of spine, injuries in this area happen easily and more often. There may be temporary pains or permanent neck injuries.

Neck cramps may be caused by the abnormalities in the muscles, ligaments and nerves in the neck area and also the bones and joints of the spine. These abnormalities happen due to wear and tear, injuries and tumors in some cases. Neck pain may also cause pain in other areas like shoulder, arms and back. Other factors that may cause the cramps are degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis cervical disk degeneration, infection and congenital abnormalities in the vertebrae.

Medical care for neck cramps

If the severe pain is experienced due to an as a result of an accident or a fall the person has to be immobilized to avoid further injuries and immediate medical intervention is necessary.

In cases other than accidents or falls, when the neck cramps are severe and continue for a longer time, along with pain getting down to the legs and arms and with other symptoms like headaches, numbness in some parts of the body and weakness, an immediate visit to the doctor, especially an orthopedist is advisable. The orthopedist takes the complete history of the problem and may recommend X-ray studies for properly analyzing the problem. In case, further studies have to be done, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography), Myelogram (injecting a dye or contrast material into the spinal canal) or EMG (electromyogram) are also done.

Treatment

It usually involves rest, medication, immobilization, physical therapies, exercises, activity modifications or a combination of any of these.

Stomach Cramps -

Editor — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 12:45:59 +0000

A stomach cramp is the most common type of cramp. It is experienced by many people. It is typically a squeezing pain occurring over a span of period ranging from a few minutes to hours sometimes. The origin of the pain is the stomach region and the area around it but at times it may originate somewhere else and then gradually move up to the stomach. They are usually associated with the digestive disorders, but there may be other causes as well. Diarrhea, constipation, a viral infection, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, lactose intolerance, even food poisoning are some of the other causes.

Eating habits are the root cause of stomach cramps in most cases. Bad eating habits, eating improper quality and quantity of food at improper times cause stomach cramps quite often. Eating improperly handled foods may lead to stomach cramps, indigestion, nausea, vomiting and food poisoning in extreme cases. Stress is also said to lead to stomach cramps in kids and adults as well. Not consuming a well-balanced diet, not consuming enough fiber and water during the meals also leads to frequent stomach cramps. A visit to the doctor is advisable if the stomach cramp persists for a week or more and is accompanied with fever, bloody stools and other symptoms.

More about stomach cramps -

Irritable bowel syndrome is a term used to explain discomfort in the bowel i.e. the colon, or large intestine. Symptoms of IBS may comprise of cramp pain, bloating, gas, mucus in the stool, and changes in bowel habits. Some people with IBS have constipation rare stools that may be hard, dry and painful. Others have diarrhea recurrent loose stools. Some people having irregular constipation and diarrhea. Sometimes a person with IBS has a cramp urge to shift the bowels but cannot do so.

Treatment of stomach cramps -

1. Drinking enough water helps with the stomach cramps and other health related problems. Doctors recommend at least eight glasses of water a day to keep healthy.

2. Avoiding coffee, caffeine and cola drinks and other artificial beverages goes a long way in keeping oneself healthy. These beverages are diuretics that rob the body of its water content leading to a lot of problems.

3. Consuming a lot of fluids and water when hit with food poisoning and viral infections keeps stomach cramps at bay.

4. A person who is lactose intolerant has to avoid consuming milk and milk products as these may cause stomach cramps, gas and diarrhea in such people.

Thigh cramps

Editor — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 17:55:55 +0000

Thigh cramps are caused by prolonged spasms, or involuntary contraction of a muscle. Thigh cramps, especially those of the legs, are extremely common, more so in the elderly. Although not dangerous to health, in some cases they may be symptoms of an underlying problem. Treatment is usually massage and stretching and adequate fluid intake, although in cases where cramps are frequent, medication may be recommended. A thigh cramp is an involuntarily and forcibly contracted muscle that does not relax. Any of the muscles under voluntary control can cramp. Cramps of the extremities are very common. Especially, the legs and feet, and particularly the calf are also the cause of thigh cramps. When a thigh muscle involuntarily contracts, it is called a spasm and becomes a cramp when the spasm is forceful and sustained.

About the cramp

Cramps can last somewhere from a few seconds to a quarter of an hour, and occasionally longer. It is not exceptional for a cramp to recur several times before finally going away. The cramp may rivet a part of a muscle, the entire muscle, or several muscles that usually act together. Most cramps are not a risk to health. Although they can be very bumpy, cramps are rarely a sign of a dangerous disease. Involuntary muscles such as those of the bowel, heart and uterus can also cramp.

Conclusion

Correct treatment depends on the reason of the cramps. For persistent and frequent cramps, a doctor will generally look at the patient's medical history, make a physical examination and perhaps arrange laboratory tests. This is to discover whether there is any serious underlying cause for the cramps. The most common and generally the most effective treatment for leg cramps is daily stretching of the affected muscles. Quinine has in the past been used as a remedy for muscle cramps and there is evidence that it is modestly effective, however quinine supplements have been recently banned by the US Food and Drug administration for over the counter sales due to serious and fatal side effects. Quinine may motionless be prescribed by a doctor, but the risks and benefits of using it must be taken into account. Pioneering studies are underway using a compound known as naftidrofuryl as an alternative to quinine.

Night cramps

Editor — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 19:31:31 +0000

What is the night cramp: most of the people have suffered the pain in the leg at the night which generally occurs when you are sleeping. The night cramp is really painful. A night cramp is a pain that generally occurs in the night which is due to the muscle spasm when a muscle contacts too hard. Leg cramps usually occur at the time of resting and most commonly at night when in bed that is why it is called the night cramps. This type of cramps normally occurs in the calf muscles, below and behind a knee. The small muscles of the feet are sometimes affected. This pain usually lasts a few minutes. In some cases it lasts just seconds, but in some cases it can last up to 10 minutes. (They are often called night cramps.) They may wake you from sleep. It can become a distressing condition if your sleep is regularly disturbed. The muscle can stay tendered for up to 24 hours after the night cramp.

What is the cause of the leg cramps: the causes vary in each and every case of the night cramps. The real cause of the night cramps is not known in most of the cases. According to one theory is that cramps happen when a muscle, already in a shortened position is stimulated to contract. As the muscle is already shortened, to contract further can cause the leg muscle to go into spasm and cause the night cramp. This commonly happens at night in bed as the natural position we sleep in is with the knees slightly bent or flexed. Sometimes also we sleep with the feet pointing slightly downwards. In this position the calf muscle is comparatively abridged and prone to cramps. There are many other reasons by which the cramps can be caused some of them are Over-exertion of muscles, dehydration, disorders of nerves, Excess alcohol etc.

What is the cure for a leg cramp: the most effective cure is the stretching and massaging the affected muscle. It also relieves the pain in an attack of cramp. Most night cramps soon relieve off. Painkillers are not usually helpful for a sudden attack of cramp. But you can take some painkillers according to your needs.

Vaginal cramps

Editor — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:54:07 +0000

The vagina is the small tubular opening into the female reproductive organs. This is normally protected by two bi-libbed openings called Labio-majora and Labio-Minora. This normally leads into the uterine contractions and causes the disjunction of the cervical region. This could be in the worst of the faces during the pregnancy. These could also arise during the menstruation.

Symptoms
During the menstruation sometimes the vagina does not remain tender and shows variations in its structure. If this prolongs the vaginal bleeding may cause the abortion of the child in the womb during the trimester stage. The placenta defects could also lead in to the dysfunction. This also leads into the Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), endometriosis, ectotopic pregnancy that means the implantation the foetus out of the uterus. The variation in the spotting of the blood. The most common reason for the pregnancy pain is just the discomfort during those days. This may sometimes cause gas and bloating. Pretem labor, placental abruption, which can cause oblivious bleeding, preeclampsia, urinary tract infection. There could be faintness, dizziness, vaginal discharge, pain during the bowel movements, and increase of the pain due to pressure in the pelvic region. The vaginal discharge is watery and fluidy.

Detection
This can be detected by The HCG test, the test detects the presence of the Bar bodies in the placental fluids. Hematocrit test, The White blood corpuscles can be tested, Culdocentisis, the transvaginal detection, the ultra sound for pregnancy, laproscopy, Laprotomy, the presence D and C this enables to judge the non-uterine pregnancy. The count of the serum progesterone also is the key factor in detecting. The call from on the practitioner. The check for the pre-natal health resources is also helpful. The pre-natal vitamin constipation, the check of the varicose blood vessels during the pregnancy. The information about the defects can be acquired on line also.

Cramps in feet

Editor — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 05:05:04 +0000

Your feet may hurt as you have been wearing shoes that are too tight, lack support, or have high heels. Or may be you just have not had a probability to sit down all day. Wearing good footwear and taking a break might be all you require to do to relieve your foot pain. Some probable causes of toe, foot, and ankle pain include, obvious injury, overuse. Injuries from overuse are not always noticeable. These types of injuries take place when too much stress is repeatedly placed on your foot or ankle. Instances of overuse injuries include Achilles tendinitis or tendinosis, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures.

Occurrence of the cramp

Cramps frequently occur in the calf and foot during exercise or while a person lies in bed at night. The muscle may stay sore for hours after the hard, tense cramp has stopped. Infection, which may trail a skin injury or rash or may develop from a medical condition such as infectious arthritis also leads to the cramps in the feet. Skin conditions, like that of plantar warts, corns, or blisters. A cramp in feet also gets affected cause of the inflammation, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or gout. Toe deformities, like that of bunions, hammer toes, mallet toes, or claw toes. A small child with foot or ankle pain may limp or be not capable or unwilling to walk or stand. He or she may lag behind rather than walk.

Minor leg problems

Minor leg problems, like that of sore muscles, are common. Leg problems usually occur during sports or recreational activities, work-related tasks, and work or projects around the home. Leg problems furthermore can be caused by injuries. Leg problems might be minor or serious and may include symptoms such as pain, swelling, cramps, numbness, tingling, weakness, or changes in temperature or color. Symptoms frequently develop from exercise, everyday wear and tear, or overuse. Older adults have a senior risk for leg problems because they lose muscle mass as they age. Children may have leg problems for the similar reasons as adults or for reasons specific to children. Problems are regularly caused by over activity or the rapid growth of bone and muscle that occurs in children. It may be caring to know the structure of the leg to better understand leg problems.

Back cramps

Editor — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 05:01:51 +0000

Pain felt in your lower back may come up to from the spine, muscles, nerves, or other structures in that region. It may also exude from other areas like your mid or upper back, a hernia in the groin, or a problem in the testicles or ovaries. One may feel a diversity of symptoms if you've hurt your back. One may have a itchy or burning sensation, a dull aching, or sharp pain. You also may experience flaw in your legs or feet. It won't of necessity be one event that actually causes your pain. One may have been doing many things rudely like standing, sitting, or lifting for a long time. Then abruptly, one simple movement, like reaching for something in the shower or bending from your waist, leads to the feeling of pain.

Types of back cramps

If you are like most people, you will have at slightest one backache in your life. While such pain or discomfort can occur anywhere in your back, the most common area affected is your low back. This is because the low back ropes most of your body's weight. Low back pain is the cause that Americans see their doctor next only to colds and flu's. Many back-related injuries occur at work. There are a lot of things you can do to lower your chances of getting back pain. The majority of the back problems will get better by their own. The key is to be acquainted with when you need to seek medical help and when self-care measures alone will allow you to get better.

Low back cramps

Low back pain may be keen, lasting less than one month, or chronic, lasting longer than three months. While getting heightened back pain more than once is common, continuous long-term pain is not. Many people will sense better within one week after the start of back pain. After another 4-6 weeks, the back pain will liable be completely gone. To get better swiftly, take the right steps when you first get pain. If you have no indication of a severe underlying cause for your back pain, then you should reduce physical activity only for the first couple of days. Progressively resume your usual activities after that. Here are a few tips for how to handle pain early on.

Nocturnal Leg Cramps

Editor — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 15:30:58 +0000

Introduction

Nocturnal leg cramps also called leg cramps, muscle tightness of the leg, muscle hardness, nocturnal leg pain, or Charley-horse are painful, unpleasant sensations occurring due to tightness or tension in the muscles, usually the calves or sometimes in the feet or the sole of the feet during sleep. These may last for a few minutes. These are usually seen in the elderly and among pregnant women.

Symptoms of Nocturnal Leg Cramps

The most common symptoms are painful sensation in the legs or calves, awakening frequently from sleep, discomfort in the legs.

More about Nocturnal Leg Cramps -

Leg cramps during sleep usually are a result of tightness in the muscles and inactivity or exaggeration of a normal muscle reflex. When person turns or changes position in his sleep, the calf muscles are contracted and the tendons are stretched. When this happens the nerve stretch receptors in the tendons are stimulated to send a message to the spinal cord for contracting the calf muscles. As a result, the muscles remain contracted for a longer time causing the cramps. Nerve damages caused by nerve pinching, muscle damage, partial obstruction of blood flow to the legs, abnormal mineral or hormone levels are some other causes leading to leg cramps.

Prevention / Treatment -
Grasping the toes and pulling them towards you, stretching the calf muscles help in reliving the pain caused due to nocturnal leg cramps. Regular stretching of muscles and exercises also helps. If they are not of serious types, cramps during the night can be prevented by exhausting the stretch reflex before going to bed, by stretching the calf muscles, by doing the wall pushups.

Stretching exercises like "runner's stretch" and "stair stretch" for 30 seconds help. "Runner's stretch" is leaning against the wall, stepping forward, and leaving the back foot flat on the floor. "Stair stretch" is standing on the edge of a stair, holding a banister and dropping the heels

Using a heating pad for 10 minutes before sleeping also helps.

Quinine is also effective in treating the cramps. Doctors usually prescribe 1 or 2 pills to be taken before going to bed. Pregnant ladies have to consult the doctor before using them as they are said to cause miscarriages and birth defects. They may also cause headache, chest pain, nausea and asthma.