A muscle cramp is a sudden, unexpected tightening of one or more muscles. Sometimes called a charley horse, a muscle cramp can be very painful. Exercising or working hard, especially in heat, can lead to muscle cramps. Some medicines and illnesses also might cause muscle cramps. Muscle cramps aren't usually harmful.

Stomach flu or viral gastroenteritis is caused by a virus leading to symptoms of stomach cramps, vomiting, and loose stools with a watery consistency. Certain foods containing dietary products, cheese, milk, ghee, and other food items like sugars, lentils, cabbage, onions, pulses, and starch are not fully digested by the digestive tract. As a result of this, bacteria in the gut tend to break them down, leading to excess gas production, which is released as flatulence and also leads to frequent cramping. Other causes are irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, lactose intolerance, and Crohn's disease. Some of the lifestyle changes that can help in reducing cramps are eating healthy foods like fruits and green leafy vegetables rather than eating instant readymade junk foods. The diet must contain omega-3 fatty acids. Physical activities like swimming, jogging, running, and walking release endorphins and serotonin which reduces cramps. Other factors to be followed are drinking plenty of fluids and keeping the body hydrated always. Reducing stress and relaxing is very effective to get rid of stomach pain. Cramps can also be relieved by using hot fomentation to the lower part of the abdomen by improving circulation and reducing prostaglandin release.

They commonly occur from dehydration or muscle overexertion. However, in some cases, they can be a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as type 2 diabetes or kidney failure. Leg cramps can also be a side effect of certain medications. This article discusses how leg cramps feel, their causes, and prevention and treatment options.

A muscle cramp is a painful tightness in a muscle due to a sudden, involuntary contraction. Various factors may contribute to muscle cramping, but the underlying cause is often unclear. Muscle cramps may occur almost anywhere in the body, but some common areas include the legs and feet.