Gastritis Symptoms: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Gastritis Guide: Recognizing Symptoms and Treatment Options

Gastritis is a health condition that is caused by the inflammation of the stomach lining. In India, almost 3 out of 869 individuals suffer from this disease, and it can be characterized by gas, bloating, abdominal pain, etc. Now, there can be several causes that can lead to gastritis, ranging from bacterial infection and chronic stress to autoimmune disease. 

If left untreated, gastritis can cause serious complications such as ulcers in the stomach, internal bleeding, and a higher risk of stomach cancer. Thus, it is customary for individuals to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for gastritis, as well as for timely medical intervention and preventing the development of complications.  

What is Gastritis?

Gastritis is inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the stomach lining or mucosa. It occurs when the stomach lining weakens or gets damaged, enabling digestive acids to irritate and inflame the inner walls of the stomach.

Based on the severity, gastritis can be acute (sudden and temporary) or chronic (long-term). This medical condition can result from a plethora of factors, such as:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection: A widespread bacterial infection that compromises the lining of the stomach, making it susceptible to acid damage.
• Excessive Alcohol Use: Alcohol irritates and wears away the lining of the stomach, causing inflammation.
• Long-term Use of NSAIDs: Regular consumption of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen may wear away the stomach lining.
• Chronic Stress: Stress stimulates the production of stomach acid, leading to gastritis over time.
• Bile Reflux Disease: Bile from the small intestine flows back into the stomach and irritates the stomach lining.
• Autoimmune Diseases: In some unusual instances, the immune system attacks the stomach lining by mistake, causing inflammation.

Also Read: Gingivitis Symptoms

What are the Common Symptoms of Gastritis?

Following is an overview of the common gastritis symptoms:

• Abdominal Pain: Gnawing or burning pain in the upper abdomen, commonly worsening between meals.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Sickness and vomiting, which can be accompanied by blood in severe cases.
• Loss of Appetite: Decreased hunger as a result of stomach pain.
• Bloating and Gas: More gas and bloating after eating.
• Heartburn and Indigestion: A burning sensation in the stomach and oesophagus.
• Black or Tarry Stools: Internal bleeding that needs prompt attention from a doctor.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Chronic inflammation may contribute to nutrient deficiencies and fatigue.
• Unintentional Weight Loss: On account of poor digestion and loss of appetite.

What are the Different Types of Gastritis?

Gastritis can be categorized into various forms:

1. Acute Gastritis: Inflammation occurs suddenly, generally due to infections, alcohol, or drugs.
2. Chronic Gastritis: Ongoing inflammation that may result in stomach ulcers or cancer if left untreated.
3. Erosive Gastritis: A serious type of gastritis in which the lining of the stomach erodes, potentially causing ulcers or bleeding.
4. Autoimmune Gastritis: The immune system of the body mistakenly targets the stomach lining, causing inflammation.
5. Atrophic Gastritis: Ongoing inflammation that may lead to loss of cells in the stomach and predispose to cancer.
6. Bile Reflux Gastritis: Results from the backflow of bile into the stomach, damaging its lining.

What are the Complications of Gastritis?

If not treated, gastritis may result in severe complications, such as:

• Peptic ulcers, i.e., when the gastric lining has open sores
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Pernicious anemia
• Greater risk of stomach cancer
• Chronic discomfort and indigestion

Also Read: Lung Fibrosis Causes 

How Do Doctors Diagnose Gastritis?

Physicians can employ several ways to diagnose gastritis:

• Review of medical history and symptoms
• Physical examination
• Blood tests to screen for H. pylori infection or anaemia
• Endoscopy, which is when a tube with a camera is passed through the mouth to look at the lining of the stomach.
• Stool test to see if there is blood in the stool

What are the Gastritis Treatment Options?

Gastritis treatment options vary with cause and severity. They include:

Medications:

• Proton pump blockers (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole)
• H2-receptor blockers (cut down the production of acid in the stomach)
• Antibiotics (in case of H. pylori infections)
• Antacids that neutralize stomach acid

Dietary Changes:

• Stay away from fried, spicy, and acidic foods.
• Eat more fibre-containing foods like whole grains and vegetables.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated beverages.
• Lifestyle Modifications:
• Exercise and meditate to reduce stress levels.
• Do not drink alcohol or smoke.
• Stay at a healthy weight.

Natural Remedies:

• Probiotics (yoghurt, kefir)
• Herbal teas (ginger, chamomile)
• Turmeric and honey, since they are anti-inflammatory

What are the Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Managing Gastritis?

Dietary and lifestyle adjustments are crucial in preventing and managing gastritis. Some noteworthy factors are provided below:

1. Dietary Changes:

• Eat small, frequent meals to minimize stomach stress.
• Avoid spicy, fried, and acidic foods that can irritate the stomach lining.
• Select low-fat and high-fiber foods such as lean meat, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Cut down on caffeinated, carbonated, and alcoholic drinks.
• Drink plenty of water and herbal teas.
• Eat probiotic-rich foods, such as yoghurt and fermented foods, to promote good gut health.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:

• Practice yoga, meditation, and deep breathing every day to reduce stress levels.
• Quit smoking as it damages the lining of the stomach, making it more likely to be irritated.
• Avoid overuse of painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen.
• Eat smaller meals during the day instead of heavy meals to prevent stomach strain.
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating to prevent acid reflux.
• Be at a healthy weight to keep stress away from the stomach and decrease acid reflux risks.

Also Read: Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

What are the Home Remedies for Gastritis?

Several home remedies can be used to alleviate gastritis symptoms naturally:

1. Ginger: Contains anti-inflammatory substances that soothe the lining of the stomach.
2. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea contains natural anti-inflammatory properties that ease gastritis symptoms.
3. Aloe Vera Juice: Renowned for its soothing attributes that reduce irritation in the stomach.
4. Probiotic Foods: Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods replenish the normal gut flora.
5. Licorice Root: A natural substance that may relieve inflammation and mend the stomach lining.
6. Warm Water with Honey and Lemon: A soothing drink that may balance stomach acid levels.

What are the Foods to Eat and Avoid for Gastritis? 

Foods to Eat:

• Fibre-rich foods (oats, whole grains, bananas, apples, carrots, and broccoli)
• Lean proteins (chicken, tofu, fish, and turkey)
• Probiotic food substances (kimchi, yogurt, sauerkraut, miso)
• Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil)

Foods to Avoid

• Spicy foods (chilli peppers, hot sauces)
• Caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, energy drinks)
• Acidic foods (citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar)
• Alcohol and fizzy drinks
• Processed and fried foods (processed foods, fast foods, chips, etc.)
• Milk foods (in the case of lactose intolerance or milk product sensitivity)
• Sweets and foods high in sugars

Gastritis is an easily treatable but common illness that affects millions of people around the world. Identifying the symptoms and timely opting for treatment is the best way to prevent the condition from worsening and leading to complications. 

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and optimal hydration are some of the key measures that can help manage gastritis in the long run. Additionally, avoiding certain foods like processed and fried items, alcohol, caffeinated drinks, spicy items, etc., can help reduce inflammation.