Gastritis

Your stomach is a pouch-like muscle, roughly the size of a small fruit, like a cantaloupe. It stretches out to hold a lot of food and drink – around four liters, or a little more than a gallon. The stomach muscles churn the food, squeezing it in waves called peristalsis. These waves move the food through a doorway called the pyloric valve, into the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum.

Gastritis is a general name for several conditions that all involve inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammation is often caused by an infection from the same germ that causes most ulcers. Taking painkillers regularly or drinking too much alcohol can also cause it.

Gastritis can develop suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually (chronic gastritis). Sometimes, gastritis can lead to ulcers, which are sores in the stomach lining, and might increase the risk of stomach cancer. However, for many people, gastritis isn't serious and gets better quickly with treatment.

Gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, doesn't always cause noticeable problems. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include a burning or gnawing pain in your upper stomach, often called indigestion. This discomfort might get better or worse after eating. You might also feel nauseous or vomit. Feeling full quickly after eating is another potential symptom. Many people experience indigestion and a slightly upset stomach occasionally. Usually, these feelings pass quickly and don't need medical attention.

However, if you have gastritis symptoms like indigestion, nausea, or vomiting that last for a week or more, it's important to see a doctor. If you experience severe pain, can't keep anything down, feel lightheaded or dizzy, or notice any blood in your vomit, stools, or black stools, seek immediate medical care. These could be signs of a more serious problem.

Finally, if your stomach discomfort starts after taking medications, especially aspirin or other pain relievers, be sure to mention this to your doctor. This information can help them determine the cause of your symptoms.

Many people experience an upset stomach or indigestion. This is usually temporary and doesn't need a doctor's visit. However, if you have stomach irritation or pain that lasts for a week or more, you should see a doctor.

If you have severe stomach pain or can't keep anything down because of vomiting, get medical help right away. Also, seek immediate care if you feel lightheaded or dizzy. If your stomach problems started after taking medicine, especially pain relievers like aspirin, mention this to your doctor.

If you vomit blood, have blood in your stool, or your stool is black, see a doctor immediately. These are serious signs that need to be checked.

Gastritis is when the lining of your stomach gets inflamed. Think of your stomach lining as a protective layer, like a soft, mucus-coated shield, keeping the stomach wall safe. When this protective layer is damaged or weakened, it can't do its job properly. This allows the stomach's digestive juices to irritate and inflame the lining. Various health problems can make your stomach lining more vulnerable to damage, increasing your chances of getting gastritis. One example is Crohn's disease, a condition that causes inflammation in different parts of your digestive system.

Gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, can have various causes. Understanding these factors can help you protect your stomach health.

1. Bacterial Infections: A common bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) often lives in the stomach. While many people carry this bacteria without any problems, some develop gastritis or other stomach issues. Scientists think a person's susceptibility to H. pylori causing problems might be inherited, or influenced by lifestyle choices like diet and smoking.

2. Regular Use of Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), are called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Taking these regularly or in high doses can irritate and damage the stomach lining, leading to both short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) gastritis.

3. Age: As people age, their stomach lining can thin, making them more prone to gastritis. Older adults also face a higher risk of H. pylori infection and other health conditions that can contribute to gastritis.

4. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can irritate and damage the stomach lining, making it more vulnerable to stomach acid. Heavy drinking significantly increases the risk of acute gastritis (a sudden onset of inflammation).

5. Stress: Major life events like surgery, serious injuries, burns, or severe infections can trigger acute gastritis. The stress response can weaken the stomach's protective lining.

6. Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy and radiation treatments used in cancer care can sometimes cause gastritis as a side effect.

7. Autoimmune Disorders: In some cases, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the cells of the stomach lining. This is called autoimmune gastritis. This type of gastritis is more common in people with other autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's disease or type 1 diabetes. The immune attack can damage the stomach's protective lining, and this can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.

8. Other Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS, Crohn's disease, celiac disease, sarcoidosis, and parasitic infections, can be linked to gastritis.

It's crucial to remember that these factors can interact in complex ways. If you experience symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting, it's important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

If gastritis isn't treated, it can lead to serious problems like stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding. In very uncommon cases, long-lasting gastritis can slightly raise your chances of getting stomach cancer. This increased risk is more likely if the lining of your stomach is significantly damaged and the cells in the lining change.

If you're experiencing gastritis symptoms that aren't getting better even after treatment, it's important to talk to your doctor.

Diagnosing Gastritis: Understanding the Tests

Gastritis, inflammation of the stomach lining, can be suspected based on a medical history and physical exam. However, doctors often use tests to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cause. Here are some common methods:

1. Upper Endoscopy (or Endoscopic Exam):

This is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera (endoscope) to look inside your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of your small intestine (duodenum). The doctor guides the endoscope down your throat. A video screen displays the images, allowing the doctor to see the lining of these areas for any signs of inflammation, ulcers, or other problems.

If something unusual is spotted, your doctor may take a small tissue sample (biopsy). This tissue sample is sent to a lab for analysis, and it can help determine if you have H. pylori bacteria, a common cause of gastritis. Endoscopy is often the first test recommended for some patients, particularly those with a higher risk of certain conditions, rather than testing for H. pylori immediately.

2. X-ray (Barium Swallow):

An X-ray of your upper digestive system can create images of your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. To enhance the visibility of the digestive tract, you'll swallow a special liquid containing barium. This liquid coats the lining of your digestive organs, making any irregularities, like ulcers, stand out more clearly on the X-ray. This procedure is called a barium swallow.

3. Tests for H. pylori:

H. pylori is a bacteria that can cause gastritis. Your doctor might order tests to check for its presence. These tests include:

• Stool Test: A sample of your stool is analyzed to detect the presence of H. pylori.
• Breath Test: You drink a special liquid containing radioactive carbon. If H. pylori is present, the bacteria will break down the liquid, and the radioactive carbon will be detected in your breath. The exact type of test your doctor orders depends on your specific situation.

Important Considerations:

All these procedures are relatively safe and help your doctor accurately diagnose and treat gastritis. Your doctor will explain the specific procedure and any necessary preparations.

Treating Gastritis: A Simple Guide

Gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, has various causes. Treatment depends on the cause.

If gastritis is caused by things like NSAID pain relievers or alcohol, simply stopping these substances can often help. This is a good first step, but it may not be enough in all cases.

If the cause is a bacteria called H. pylori: Your doctor will likely prescribe a combination of antibiotics to kill it. It's crucial to take the full course of antibiotics, typically 7-14 days, to ensure the bacteria are completely eliminated. After treatment, your doctor will likely retest you to confirm the H. pylori is gone.

Medications to Reduce Stomach Acid:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medicines work by blocking the production of stomach acid. They can be prescription or over-the-counter. While effective, long-term use, especially at high doses, may slightly increase the risk of fractures in the hip, wrist, or spine. Your doctor might recommend a calcium supplement to help reduce this risk.

• Histamine blockers (acid blockers): These medicines reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. They help relieve pain and promote healing. These can also be prescription or over-the-counter.

• Antacids: These neutralize existing stomach acid and can quickly relieve pain. They're helpful for immediate symptom relief, but aren't usually a primary treatment for gastritis. Antacids can cause constipation or diarrhea, depending on the specific ingredients. PPIs and acid blockers are generally more effective and have fewer side effects.

What to Do Next:

If you have gastritis symptoms, it's important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. They can determine the cause and recommend the most appropriate medications.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.