Services

Gastritis Treatment

Gastritis occurs when the stomach lining becomes inflamed or irritated, which can be due to age, excessive alcohol consumption, or overuse of anti-inflammatories. This can result in prolonged indigestion and constant pain in the upper abdomen. Most of the time, it is easily spotted and treated, but sometimes it can go on without any symptoms, leading to future health issues if not treated properly.

What is Gastritis?

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, typically caused by factors like infection, excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, or stress. It often leads to symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help manage gastritis and alleviate associated discomfort.

What are the common symptoms?

Symptoms of gastritis can vary, but if you experience any of the following for more than a week, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor:

Nausea
Vomiting – blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Burning ache or pain (constant indigestion) in your upper abdomen that becomes better or worse with eating
Indigestion
Black, tarry stool

Causes and Risk Factors

Inflammation of the stomach lining commonly arises from an infection caused by the bacteria responsible for the majority of stomach ulcers. Excessive alcohol consumption and frequent use of pain relievers are significant factors associated with this condition. In certain instances, this inflammation can elevate the risk of developing stomach cancer and ulcers.

Diagnosis of Gastritis

Your doctor may suspect gastritis after a quick examination of your medical history, but in some instances, tests will be necessary to identify the cause. Often, a doctor will test for the bacterium H. pylori, perform an endoscopy, or take an X-ray of your upper digestive system. They look for signs of inflammation in the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus that can help pinpoint and determine the best treatment.

Treatment Options

The approach to treating inflammation of the stomach lining depends on the severity of the case. In instances of acute inflammation caused by alcohol and pain medication, relief can be achieved by simply discontinuing the use of these substances.

There are also several medications that can treat this, including:

- Antacids
- Antibiotics
- Probiotics
- Medications that reduce acid
- Medications that block acid and promote healing

Without proper treatment, pain can lead to ulcers or stomach bleeding. Consult with your physician if you experience any symptoms of gastritis.