How to overcome severe menstrual cramps that persist despite taking Acetaminophen?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am very concerned about my bad menstrual cramps, as I started getting them when I was 11. I am nearly 18 years old, 5 feet 3 inches in height, and 155 Ibs weight. But for the past six months, I have been getting severe cramps that make me unable to eat. I cannot eat as the food comes up every time. I also try to keep myself hydrated, but water also comes up. As an athlete, food is my major necessity before and after my workouts. It has made me feel light-headed and throw up. I have also been on Acetaminophen to relieve my pains, but it does not seem to work well. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. As a teenager, you have been experiencing menstrual periods with symptoms. Abdominal pains should be felt around your ovulation or menses. I think you can go for physiotherapy for pain relief. You should go for a transvaginal scan and discuss it with your local gynecologist doctor. My advise:

Consult your specialist doctor, talk to them, and take medications with their consent.

Take a tablet of Ponstan (Mefenamic acid) 500 mg or tablet of Paracetamol 500 mg every eight hours for two to five days when you are in pain.
Take a tablet of Cyclizine (Cyclizine Hydrochloride) 50 mg nearly 45 minutes before food for vomiting.
Try to take a properly nutitious diet for good physical health, exercise, and other recreational activities.
Drink lots of water. Sometimes even citrus juices may also reduce the symptoms of mentrual cramps.

If no benefits are seen after using Paracetamol, you can consult your gynecologist doctor and ask for cyclic combined oral contraceptives pills for three cycles to relieve you hormonally.

Thank you.