Almost every person at least once in his life had to endure such an unpleasant condition as colic in the intestine. These are sharp pains in the form of an attack caused by spasm of the small or large intestine and irritation of the nerve endings in its wall. Causes of intestinal colic can be various diseases and conditions of the abdominal organs. The main ones are:
-
overeating, eating
foods rich in fiber, chocolate, strong coffee;
- insufficient enzymatic activity of the stomach and pancreas;
- intestinal infections;
- poisoning with salts of heavy metals (lead colic);
- helminthiases and protozoonoses;
- nervous shocks, stressful situations.
Also, colic in the intestine can be one of the symptoms of organic diseases of the abdominal cavity, requiring immediate intervention by the surgeon.
Why does the intestine hurt?
The mechanisms of intestinal pain are very complex.
Mostly colic in the intestine occurs due to impaired patency and impaired motor function. For example, with a decrease or increase in the tone of smooth muscles, acceleration of peristalsis, stretching and spasms of intestinal loops, pain appears.
How does the intestines hurt?
Paroxysmal pain with intestinal colic occurs most often suddenly, against the background of complete well-being. Cutting, cramping pains begin in the lower back and abdomen, after which they are displaced, can give in the groin. The pains gradually increase, become intolerable, after which they gradually fade and the condition eases. But after some time the pain arises again. During an attack, the patient is extremely agitated, can moan or even scream. With intestinal colic, irritation of the nerve endings of the peritoneum occurs, therefore this syndrome is accompanied by bloating and rumbling of the intestines, as well as upset stool (constipation or diarrhea), nausea and dizziness are often observed. In some cases, the temperature may even rise, then you need to urgently consult a doctor. The duration of the attack can last from several minutes to a day.
What to do when colic occurs?
Treatment of colic in the intestine depends on the cause that provoked it.
During an attack, it is recommended to observe bed rest, at the slightest suspicion of acute surgical pathology (appendicitis, perforation of an ulcer with ulcerative colitis, acute
intestinal obstruction) it is strictly forbidden to put a heating pad on the stomach. It is necessary to take an antispasmodic, for example, no-shpa or papaverine. If there are colic in the intestine, you can massage the stomach with light movements in a clockwise direction. To speed up the release of the intestines from gases, herbal teas with an antispasmodic effect or simply weak black tea without sugar are recommended. If the pain does not subside within a few hours, you must immediately call an ambulance. In some cases, you can’t do without the help of a doctor!
Take care of your health, do not neglect medical care.