MUSCLE CRAMPS, STOMACH SPASMS, AND HEADACHES: UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT TYPES OF PAIN

Children and adults can experience many different kinds of physical pain, each of which may need to be treated differently. People might experience muscle cramps that happen after a workout, stomach spasms that cause abdominal discomfort, or headaches that make it difficult to concentrate. Understanding what causes these pains, how to identify symptoms, and the best treatment options, including over-the-counter medications like Scopex®, ActiPatch®, and Adco-Napamol®, can help you manage pain quickly and effectively.^1,3,13,14 This article will explore some different types of pain and how to relieve them.

MUSCLE CRAMP SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES

What Causes a Cold?
Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions of a muscle or a group of muscles, often occurring in the legs, neck, or back. These cramps can last from a few seconds to several minutes and range from mild discomfort to severe pain.¹⁸¹

Common Causes of Muscle Cramps

• Dehydration - Lack of fluids and electrolytes can disrupt muscle function.¹⁸¹
• Overuse or Fatigue - Intense physical activity without proper stretching can cause muscle cramps.¹⁸¹
• Mineral Imbalances - Low or high levels of potassium, magnesium, or calcium may trigger cramps.¹⁸¹

How to Manage Muscle Cramps

• Stay Hydrated - Drinking enough water helps prevent cramps.¹⁸¹
• Stretch and Massage - Gently stretching and massaging the muscle can ease cramping.¹⁸¹
• Use Heat or Cold Therapy - A heating pad relaxes tight muscles, while ice packs reduce inflammation.¹⁸¹
• Try ActiPatch® - ActiPatch® is a clinically proven, drug-free pain relief therapy that provides targeted relief for musculoskeletal pain.¹

ActiPatch® works by modulating nerve activity, helping reduce pain without medication. Pain relief can be felt after just 2-3 hours.¹

STOMACH SPASM SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES

What Are Stomach Spasms?
Stomach spasms are contractions of the stomach or intestinal, causing discomfort or pain. ¹⁸² These spasms can be occasional or chronic, depending on the underlying cause.

Common Causes of Stomach Spasms

• Gas - Swallowing too much air while eating and drinking, or eating gas-producing foods can trigger spasms.¹⁸²
• Gastroenteritis - Viral or bacterial infections can inflame the stomach lining.¹⁸²
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - A chronic condition causing cramping, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.¹⁸²

How to Manage Stomach Spasms

• Yoga - Some poses can help gas pass through, and may also help support healthy digestion.¹⁸²
• Stay Hydrated - Drinking plenty of water and replenishing electrolytes may help.¹⁸²
• Herbal Tea - Chamomile or ginger tea can help manage spasms and gas.¹⁸²
• Try Scopex® for Stomach Cramp Relief – Scopex® is a stomach cramp medicine that contains Hyoscine-N-Butylbromide, an antispasmodic that relaxes the stomach muscles, helping relieve cramps and bloating.^{13,14, 227}

Scopex® is suitable for the whole family, with tablets for adults and syrup for children from one month old.^13,14

HEADACHE SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES

What Are Headaches?
Headaches are one of the most common pain-related complaints, ranging from throbbing, constant, sharp or dull.¹⁵⁶

Types of Headaches

• Tension Headaches - Caused by stress, these headaches create a dull, aching sensation all over your head.¹⁸³
• Migraines - More intense than tension headaches, migraines cause throbbing pain, nausea, and light sensitivity.¹⁸³
• Cluster Headaches - Severe, burning and piercing pain often one eye or side of the face at a time. Swelling can occur.¹⁸³

How to Manage Headaches

• Stay Hydrated - Dehydration is a trigger for headaches, so make sure you are drinking enough water.¹⁵⁶
• Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule - Poor sleep habits can contribute to frequent headaches.¹⁵⁶
• Avoid Triggers - Alcohol, smoking, and skipped meals can lead to headaches.⁵
• Take Headache Tablets Like Adco-Napamol® for pain relief.³

Adco-Napamol® offers mild to moderate pain relief for the whole family - with tablets for adults, and a peppermint-flavoured syrup for children from 3 months old. Tablets are sugar-free, making it suitable for people who are managing their sugar intake.³

WHEN TO SEE A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL

While mild pain is often manageable at home, you should seek medical attention if:

• Muscle cramps occur frequently and are severe.¹⁸¹
• Stomach spasms persist for days or are accompanied by vomiting or fever.¹⁸²
• Headaches become chronic or significantly impact daily life.¹⁵⁶

If over-the-counter medications don't relieve pain, a healthcare provider may recommend alternative treatments or further evaluation.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Pain is an inevitable part of life, but understanding its causes and treatments can help you manage discomfort effectively. Whether it's muscle cramps, stomach spasms, or headaches, choosing the right treatment - like Scopex® for stomach pain,^13,14 ActiPatch® for muscle pain relief,¹ or Adco-Napamol® for symptomatic pain relief³ - can make a difference.

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new medications, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.