Causes of Cramps, Headache and Bloating
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Hormonal Changes
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Hormone fluctuations due to menstrual cycles, stress, pregnancy and menopause can cause a host of problems. Headaches, bloating and cramps are the three leading symptoms of hormonal changes. Both estrogen and progesterone hormones levels play key roles in these changes. When estrogen levels stop, the amount of bile produced in the liver slows down and causes bloating from constipation. According to Mayo Clinic, low levels of estrogen cause chemical reactions in the brain that cause headaches. Cramps are also closely tied with the production of hormones. During menstruation, the uterine lining is replaced by a new one. This causes contraction in the uterus, thus producing cramps. In addition, stress caused by fluctuating hormones can drive down the production of both progesterone or estrogen. Hormonal symptoms are generally relieved by taking Ibuprofen or Advil. Menopausal symptoms are typically treated with hormone replacement therapy. Birth control can reduce bloating and headaches, because it contains progesterone which reduces these symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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Bloating and cramps are two of the main symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Stress can worsen or provoke IBS and cause headaches. According to National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, sensitivities to certain foods or stress may be the cause of IBS. The contractions that move food through the digestive tract are stronger or slower in individuals with the condition. Strong contractions cause stomach cramps while slow digestive movement promotes bloating. Gas-producing foods, such as alcohol, carbonated beverages and dairy products worsen symptoms. Stress reduction and exercise may reduce or alleviate IBS symptoms.
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Food Intolerance
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A food intolerance can cause headaches, bloating and cramps. According to Mayo Clinic, an intolerance to a specific food is more common of a problem for people than food allergies. Some people are born without the digestive enzymes to break down food properly. Lactose intolerance generally runs in families. The majority of dairy products contain lactose, a sugar found in milk. Celiac disease or gluten intolerance is triggered by consuming foods containing gluten. Wheat, bread, cookies, soy sauce, ketchup and pasta are just a few of the many products that contain gluten.
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