Menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea, are dull, throbbing pains that occur right before or during a woman's menstrual cycle. The Mayo Clinic reports that some women experience cramps so severe that everyday activities may be interrupted when cramps are present. Pain is often present in the lower abdomen and may radiate down the lower back and thighs. Additional symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loose stools, sweating and dizziness. Most women experiencing cramps are in their teens and twenties; severe cramps subside as a women ages. A physical examination is recommended to rule out complications such as endometriosis or pelvic infection. Menstrual cramps generally last no longer than 72 hours. Women can implement a variety of remedies to ease strong menstrual cramps.
MEDICATIONS
Common over-the-counter medications may relieve severe menstrual cramps. The Mayo Clinic recommends nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, which include ibuprofen and naproxen. Women should consume NSAIDs with food or milk to avoid the risk of stomach ulcers. Taking the medication one day before the expected start of a period may further relieve symptoms. Prescription NSAIDs such as mefenamic acid are available for severe cramps. Taking hormonal birth control may also alleviate severe menstrual cramps. The pill, vaginal rings, injections or skin patches deliver hormonal birth control.
advertisement
HEAT THERAPY
Applying heat to the lower abdomen relieves severe menstrual cramps and painful muscle spasms. Women should take a hot bath or simply apply heat to the area with a heating pad, electric blanket or hot water bottle. Mother Nature suggests wearing a warm jacket that reaches below the hips during cold weather; the additional warmth may help ease menstrual pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, heat therapy may be just as effective as medication.
EXCERCISE
Moving the body decreases the severity of menstrual cramps by increasing blood flow in the pelvic organs. Walking, jogging or doing sit ups increases blood flow and releases mood-lifting endorphins. Stretching the body by practicing lunges may also help: a woman should stand with feet apart and bend one knee while lunging to one side of the body, then repeat exercise on the opposite side. Practicing light yoga stretches the body as well as pelvic muscles and joints.
GINGER TEA
Mother Nature suggests that drinking ginger tea can relieve menstrual cramps. To make the tea, women can chop a 1-inch piece of ginger root, place it into five cups of water and simmer for about 15 minutes, then sweeten as needed with brown sugar.
.jpg)
.jpg)