Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach’s lining. It’s a common gastro condition resulting from a wide range of causes. There are two types of gastritis: Acute Gastritis, in which the inflammation is sudden & severe; & Chronic Gastritis, which involves long term inflammation that can last for years if untreated.

Gastritis may also be classified as Erosive Gastritis (wears out the stomach lining) & Non Erosive Gastritis (changes the lining of the stomach).

What are the Symptoms?

Pain is one of the most commonly experienced symptom and is often felt in the upper left or upper centre part of the stomach. Other common symptoms include:
  • Nausea
  • Bloating of the stomach
  • Indigestion
  • Vomiting
  • Hiccups
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Burning sensation in the stomach
Vomiting blood, shortness of breath, severe stomach pain, bloody stools indicate a more severe form of gastritis and the patient must seek immediate medical help if he or she experiences any such symptoms.

What are the Causes?

Weakness or injury to mucus-lined barrier in the stomach leads to damage & inflammation of the lining of the stomach cavity.

Other common causes include:

  • H. Pylori: Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria which develops in the mucous lining of the stomach. If left untreated, it can cause ulcers and in rare cases, may also cause stomach cancer
  • Bile reflux: A reverse flow of bile back into the stomach can lead to irritation & gastritis
  • Infections caused by bacteria & viruses

How is it Diagnosed?

After a review of the patient’s personal & family history, the doctor would perform a thorough physical examination & may recommend the following tests:

  • Upper Endoscopy
  • Blood Tests to check your red blood count & screen for H pylori infection
  • Stool Test to check for presence of blood in bowel movements

What are the Risk Factor?

Certain diseases & medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease tend to increase your risk of gastritis. Other risk factors for gastritis are:

  • Regular use of pain killers
  • Older age
  • Severe Stress due to major surgery, injury or burns
  • Excessive consumption of alcohol

How is it Treated?

Treatment for gastritis depends on various factors such as the underlying cause of the condition & whether it is acute or chronic. Some of the treatment options include
  • Antibiotic Medications
  • Antacids
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors
  • Anti Nausea Medications.
Success of a treatment depends on whether or the cause is identified rightly. For instance, antibiotics would be of no use unless the underlying cause of gastritis is bacterial. A combination of right medications & dietary changes is the best way of treating gastritis.

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