Abdominal Cramps
Type: Symptom
Definition
Severe, spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen resulting from acute colitis.
Clinical Details
The extensive, invasive ulceration of the colonic mucosa triggers violent spasms of the underlying intestinal smooth muscle. This localized, intense inflammation of the large intestine causes excruciating, cramping pain that is often relieved temporarily by defecation. The generalized lower abdominal tenderness is a hallmark of acute amebic colitis.