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cramps

Any home remedies for bad cramps?  
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973741 tn?1342342773
COMMUNITY LEADER
I agree, however, I wasn't arguing.  I mentioned that ibuprofen is what worked for me and most I know and you disputed that this should be an option.  I want posters to have information that might help them.  All medications, over the counter or otherwise, should be looked at in a way that judges their benefit over risk. That is always prudent to do.  I've not found ibuprofen to be very risky and think it is a viable option for someone asking for help with cramps.  

luck to the poster.  Hope you find relief in whatever manner best for you for the cramps.  
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4851940 tn?1515694593
To be honest specialmom, I do not think that this forum should be used with regard to argue about any medication.
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973741 tn?1342342773
COMMUNITY LEADER
I have been prescribed prescription strength ibuprofen for an injury and post pregnancy when you have cramps following birth.  I've been recommended over the counter ibuprofen by my doctor---  primary care and ob/gyn as well as a physical therapist that told me to take FOUR every 4 to 6 hours.  I've never experienced any issue.  I'm prone to GI issues and still, nothing.  Ever.  

My husband also has been prescribed prescription strength ibuprofen and been told by his doctor to take over the counter ibuprofen.  

It's commonly used and while there are those that overdue things like taking ibuprofen daily or very often and for those that are getting older, they tend to have more issues with bleeding/bruising, etc.  

But I'm not going to tell a young woman not to take ibuprofen if she has cramps.  Ask any doctor and that is what they most often recommend.  luck to the poster
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4851940 tn?1515694593
You may like to read the safety of over the counter use of Ibuprofen on the following website.  I am not able to copy and paste any of the information because of copyrights.

http://www.ehow.com/how_4716809_take-ibuprofen-safely.html
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973741 tn?1342342773
COMMUNITY LEADER
Maybe the issue jemma is that you had it prescribed . . .   it's over the counter.  Your dose must have been really high if you took the prescribed strength and was it occasional for a couple of days or a longer period?  .  But I've taken that too and even with my history of GI issues, never had an issue at all.  I still take it.  I give it to my children if they have a headache or fever.  It's not dangerous for the majority of people and much better than Tylenol in terms of safety.  

The poster will have to decide on her own but I think it is rare for the general population to have an issue with Ibuprofen taken for occasional cramps.  I personally would take ibuprofen for a cramp and wouldn't recommend that if I thought it was risky.  luck to the poster.  
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4851940 tn?1515694593
A friend of mine did get stomach bleeding from taking Ibuprofen.
I also have spoken with other people who have also experienced adverse effects from Ibuprofen.

When my doctor prescribed this medication for me, he also prescribed a stomach remedy to protect my stomach.

Although it may work for some people, it is still wise to be aware of the risks  and side effects of taking this and any other medication.

With regard to menstrual problems, the healthy eating option as I mentioned previously and taking Evening Primrose Oil does work.    It will also curb any premenstrual cravings.

Heat packs have been used for generations and it still applies to day, as well as for other pain issues.
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Avatar universal
Ditto SM.

Never really known ibuprofen to be linked to GI issues with occasional use, i.e. stomach cramps related to menstruation.  I have GERD myself and I use ibuprofen occasionally.  

Warm tea is good.............hot water bottle is good.  
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973741 tn?1342342773
COMMUNITY LEADER
I have to tell you that the vast majority of women friends that I know (if not all) take ibuprofen without a hint of an issue.  I have a history of ulcers and have had an intestinal ulcer and a stomach ulcer and have no problems with ibuprofen.  Unless you have some kind of history, I would think the benefit outweighed the risk and take something I know works.  

Otherwise, a heating pad.  That's about it for cramps in my opinion.  good luck.  
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4851940 tn?1515694593
Care needs to be taken with using anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen.  This type of medication is known to cause stomach bleeding and should always be taken with or after food.  Sometimes a doctor will prescribe a stomach remedy to protect the stomach when using Ibuprofen.

Ibuprofen does not suit everyone and can also cause oedema (swelling).

Because this question has been posted in the Women's Health Community, are you talking about menstrual cramps?

For menstrual cramps you need to have a good healthy diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and fish.  Plenty of fluids, especially water.  2 litres a day is usually recommended, more if you sweat a lot.  Make sure that you are well hydrated.

Cut out junk foods, sugary foods, like sweets, cakes, biscuits, chocolates, sweets and fizzy drinks.  Avoid using processed foods.  Eat wholemeal or seeded bread instead of white bread.  Also avoid ready meals, coffee tea, sugar.  

Evening primrose oil may help with menstrual cramps.  You can purchase  the capsules from large supermarkets that sell medicines and herbal remedies and also from your herbal shop as well as on line.

Low magnesium, potassium and calcium can cause cramps.  Chromium and magnesium will also help to lessen sugar cravings.  Chromium is in brewer's yeast; magnesium is in oatmeal, avocados, almonds and soya beans.

Bananas and tomatoes are a good source of potassium and if you feel like you want something sweet, have a piece of fruit or a banana.  Avocados are full of vitamin B6 and this will help to reduce premenstrual syndrome symptoms - eat the avocados regularly a week before your period.  

Normal pain killing relief medication can be used as directed on the packet and you can also apply a heat pack or a hot water bottle (wrapped in a towel to avoid scalds or burns) to your painful tummy or back.

Taking a hot bath may help too.

If you cramps do not lessen with changing your diet over a period of 3-4 months, you may consider seeing your doctor.  Severe menstrual cramps can sometimes be caused by a condition called Endometriosis.
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973741 tn?1342342773
COMMUNITY LEADER
I personally knock out cramps with ibuprofen.  Not a home remedy but a cheap way to get rid of discomfort.  good luck
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4851940 tn?1515694593
Drink more water.
You may find magnesium may help.
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