Intestinal colic is a special pain syndrome, localized in the abdomen and associated with an intensive reduction of the intestinal wall. This condition can be caused by various pathologies and occurs due to various mechanisms:
- hyperextension of the intestinal wall;
- irritation of muscle tissue or nerve plexuses of the intestine;
- impaired intestinal motility;
- The presence of obstacles in the intestines that make it difficult to promote the contents of the body.
Often, intestinal colic occurs when eating large amounts of food, poisoning stale foods, stressful situations, and they can accompany diseases such as helminthiosis, gastritis, peptic ulcer, cholelithiasis and many others. other. the appearance of colic often indicates an aggravation of the course of the pathology provoking them, this condition requires compulsory medical care and diagnostics. Consider what are the symptoms of intestinal colic in adults, and what treatment is prescribed in this case.
Symptoms of intestinal colic
Intestinal colic arises as an attack of sudden growing pain, which is cramped in character and strengthens when pressed on the stomach. The pain is more often localized in the inguinal or near-umbilical area and can give to the genitals, rectum, waist. Sometimes the painful sensations are spilled, do not have a clear localization. Colic can last from several minutes to several days, causing agonizing discomfort up to loss of consciousness.
In addition to pain, intestinal colic can be observed:
- bloating;
- diarrhea;
- nausea;
- vomiting;
- heartburn ;
- strong weakness;
- pallor;
- sweating;
- elevated body temperature.
In the case of intestinal colic caused by intestinal obstruction, which is life-threatening condition, there is a lack of stool and gas, repeated vomiting, severe bloating.
First aid for intestinal colic in adults
If intestinal colic has not occurred for the first time and the patient is known for the diagnosis that provoked the pain syndrome, it is recommended to take previously prescribed medication. You can also take an antispasmodic drug that will help to eliminate or reduce the spasm of the smooth muscles of the intestine and normalize your health, for example:
- But-shpu ;
- Drotaverine;
- Papaverine.
If intestinal colic occurs for the first time or is not eliminated after the usual actions that previously brought relief, immediately call an ambulance. Before the arrival of a doctor, you should lie down, assuming a position where pain is easier to bear, unfasten the clothing and provide fresh air. You can lightly, without pressing the stomach area to stroke clockwise.
It is impossible to take any medicines or folk remedies, to make an enema with an unidentified diagnosis, to put a heating pad on the abdomen, to eat or drink.
Treatment of intestinal colic in adults
Adequate treatment, the appointment of medications for intestinal colic in adults is possible only after a medical examination and some diagnostic measures to identify the cause of spasm of the intestine. Some pathologies may require hospitalization, surgery.
If it is determined that colic is not associated with any diseases, then sedatives, antispasmodics, analgesics can be prescribed to eliminate colic. Important in the treatment of intestinal colic is the observance of diet, and in the first day after the attack, it is sometimes recommended to completely stop eating.