Gastritis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Gastritis is a condition in which the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed or irritated. It can develop suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually over time (chronic gastritis). While many cases are mild and reversible, untreated gastritis can lead to ulcers, bleeding, or long-term stomach damage.
The stomach lining normally produces acid and protective mucus to aid digestion.
In gastritis, this protective barrier is weakened, allowing acid to damage the stomach lining, leading to inflammation, pain, and discomfort.
Common Causes of Gastritis
H. pylori infection (most common worldwide)
Viral or fungal infections (rare, usually in immunocompromised patients)
🔹 Lifestyle & Dietary Causes
Excess alcohol consumption
Spicy, oily, or highly acidic foods
Irregular meals or prolonged fasting
Excess caffeine (coffee, energy drinks)
Painkillers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin)
Long-term medication use without food
Body attacks stomach lining
Burns, trauma, major surgery
Irritation from bile entering stomach
Chronic liver or kidney disease
Increased gastric irritation
Symptoms may vary from mild to severe.
Burning or gnawing pain in upper abdomen
Bloating or fullness after eating
Warning Signs (Seek Urgent Care)
Sudden inflammation, often due to food, alcohol, or drugs
Long-term inflammation, commonly due to H. pylori
Causes erosion and bleeding of stomach lining
Thinning of stomach lining (long-standing cases)
Gastritis is diagnosed based on symptoms and investigations.
Upper GI endoscopy – direct visualization of stomach lining
H. pylori testing (breath, stool, blood test)
Blood tests (anemia, vitamin B12 levels)
Stool test for occult blood
Biopsy (during endoscopy if required)
medical Treatment & Management
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
1.Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Strengthen stomach lining
Medications should be taken only as prescribed.
2️⃣ Diet & Lifestyle Changes
Warm, freshly cooked food
Oats, rice, bananas, curd
Avoid lying down immediately after meals
Manage stress through yoga or meditation
Complications if Untreated
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Increased risk of gastric cancer (chronic cases)
Maintain regular eating habits
Avoid unnecessary painkillers
Limit alcohol and caffeine
Treat H. pylori infection early
Practice good food hygiene
Manage stress effectively
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining caused by infections, medications, diet, alcohol, or stress. Most cases improve with proper medication, diet control, and lifestyle changes. Early treatment prevents ulcers and long-term complications.
Symptoms lasting more than 1 or 2 weeks
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