"You've got the dull ache that you can have for days then get sudden, sharp stabs of pain. Ouch. You have to stop and double up" Naomi, 23

Abdominal pain and discomfort can strike at any time, without warning, and can have a considerable impact on your everyday life. There may be times when the cramps and spasms from abdominal pain can literally stop you in your tracks or leave you doubled up in pain. This can be really disruptive and may prevent you working, studying, sleeping or even carrying out the simplest tasks.

So what causes abdominal pain? How can it be effectively managed? Read on to find out more.

What are the causes of abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain can be caused by muscles spasms in the stomach, intestines or colon. These spasms can be triggered by a number of factors, both internal and external. Internal factors include food allergies or intolerances from the things we eat or drink that can have a bad reaction, quickly setting your muscles into spasm when consumed. Illnesses, such as food poisoning can also cause organs in the digestive system to cramp, leading to abdominal pain.

Other factors that are also a cause of abdominal spasms and cramps are psychological in nature, such as tension and stress. Imagine when you feel nervous or anxious - your body can often become tense. The organs of your digestive symptoms may be said to mirror this tension, causing the normal muscle rhythms to go out of balance. This can result in the muscles irregularly contracting causing strong, painful cramps. Although painful, abdominal cramps are usually harmless. They can be linked to a number of illnesses, conditions or related symptoms, including:

• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Viral infection
• Lactose intolerance
• Diverticular disease
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

What can I do to manage abdominal pain associated with IBS?

Abdominal cramps can be intensely painful, and can last for several days at a time. Many people find they can effectively control abdominal pain and cramps associated with IBS with the help of antispasmodic treatments that are specifically designed to relax painful cramps and spasms, working at the source of the pain. These are readily available in pharmacies and supermarkets. Analgesics may provide relief, and they work by masking rather than acting at the source of the pain.

If you are experiencing abdominal pain on a regular basis, it is important that you speak to a doctor, as you may have a condition such as IBS, which can be effectively managed once diagnosed. If your abdominal pain is recurring or getting worse, or if pain is accompanied by fever or weight loss, or if you notice blood on your stools, it is also very important you discuss your symptoms with a doctor immediately.

Preventing Abdominal Pain

We all know that prevention is better than cure. For some, making some simple changes to your lifestyle to avoid any known 'triggers' of your symptoms can help to avoid abdominal pain occurring in the first place.

Diet

It may be that you have a food allergy or intolerance but are not actually aware of it. The best way to find out if you do have a sensitivity to certain foods is by keeping a food diary for a month, recording all the things you eat and drink and note down any symptoms you experience as a result. You can download a copy of an abdominal pain diary here.

Exercise & relaxation

Regular exercise has been proven to be a great form of stress relief. You do not need to be a fitness fanatic to enjoy regular exercise - a brisk walk everyday, a 30-minute swim or a regular yoga or pilates class can make a significant difference at reducing levels of stress.

If you suspect you may be suffering from IBS, further information on managing your abdominal pain symptoms can be found here.

More information on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).