All You Need to Know About Gastritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Gastritis is a common stomach condition affecting many, caused by infections, lifestyle factors, or medications. Recognizing symptoms early and adopting preventive lifestyle changes are key. Diagnosis involves tests like H. pylori assessment, endoscopy, and X-rays. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and avoiding irritants. Prompt medical attention can prevent serious complications and improve overall digestive health.
Gastritis is a prevalent stomach disorder impacting a significant portion of the population. The stomach serves key roles such as storing food, producing digestive enzymes, and moving food into the small intestine, but various conditions can impair these functions. Conditions like gastritis, GERD, ulcers, viral infections, hiatal hernia, gastroparesis, and gastric cancer can cause intense discomfort and require immediate medical care.
Understanding Gastritis – Common Stomach Ailment
Gastritis affects approximately 25-35% of people and presents in two forms: acute and chronic. Acute gastritis results from sudden inflammation due to injury, infections, stress, or irritants such as alcohol and medications. Symptoms include loss of appetite, indigestion, nausea, vomiting blood, and abdominal pain. Chronic gastritis develops gradually, often caused by bacteria, alcohol abuse, medications, or immune issues, leading to long-term damage. Symptoms include upper stomach pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, belching, weight loss, and loss of appetite.
Chronic gastritis is classified into three types: Type A stems from autoimmune conditions, Type B from Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection, and Type C from irritants like bile or NSAIDs.
To diagnose gastritis, doctors review patient history and symptoms, then may order tests such as:
H. pylori Testing: Blood, stool, or breath tests detect bacterial infection.
Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera examines the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine for inflammation, with biopsies taken if needed.
X-ray Imaging: X-rays of digestive organs help identify abnormalities linked to gastritis.
Preventive measures include avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and moderating foods that can irritate the stomach like spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. If certain medications cause stomach issues, consult a healthcare provider for alternatives. Early detection and treatment are vital for managing gastritis and avoiding complications.
