Colic

Colic or Abdominal cramps are caused by involuntary muscle contractions that can be very painful. Cramps or pain may occur when any of the muscles in the abdomen or in the walls of the bowels are stretched or strained. Because many internal organs are located in this region, it is hard to know the exact cause of cramping without further investigation.

Cramps in the abdomen can occur from: food moving through the stomach and intestines, mild food poisoning that is usually accompanied by diarrhea, stress and anxiety, gastritis (an inflammation of the stomach lining), menstruation, disease or infection in the uterus, and pregnancy, childbirth, and changing hormone levels during breast-feeding.

Symptoms such as rumbling and gurgling noises, belching, passing gas, nausea, or vomiting may be felt. Diarrhea or constipation may occur. Urinary problems or loss of hunger may also be present.

More serious conditions, such as appendicitis or gall bladder attacks, will usually cause severe and constant cramping. Cramping that last more than one-half hour, and are not related to menstruation or a known digestive condition (such as colitis), requires medical attention.


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Information from uihealthcare.com
Information from wrongdiagnosis.com
Information from MedlinePlus