Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining. An acute form of this condition involves abrupt, severe inflammation while a chronic case involves lasting inflammation that can persist for years if not treated.
What are the possible causes?
Any weakness in the stomach lining will enable the digestive juices to impair and inflame it, thus resulting to gastritis. A damaged or thin stomach lining increases the risk for gastritis. In addition, certain conditions and engaging in activities increases the risk for the condition.
A GI tract infection caused by Helicobacter pylori can cause gastritis. It can spread from one individual to another but also via contaminated water or food.
Other risk factors for gastritis include the following:
- Excessive consumption of alcohol
- Age since the stomach lining naturally thins out as one starts to age
- Cocaine use
- Routine use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen
What are the indications?
Gastritis does not usually cause evident symptoms in all cases but the common indications include the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Indigestion
- Sensation of fullness in the upper abdomen especially after eating
Treatment
The management for gastritis usually depends on the cause of the condition. In case it was triggered by the use of NSAIDs or other medications, avoidance of these drugs can help relieve the symptoms.
If the condition is due to infection by H. pylori, it is treated using antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria. Aside from antibiotics, other medications are also used to manage the condition.
Proton pump inhibitors
These medications work by blocking the cells that produce stomach acid. On the other hand, prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors can increase the risk for hip, spine and wrist fractures.
Antacids
Antacids are given for fast relief from pain. These medication
s work by neutralizing the acid in the stomach.
Acid reducing medications
These medications work by reducing the amount of acid that the stomach produces. By reducing the amount of acid being released into the digestive tract, these medications alleviate the pain of gastritis and allow the stomach lining to heal.
What are the potential complications?
If gastritis is not treated, it can lead to bleeding in the stomach as well as the formation of ulcers. Take note that certain forms of gastritis can increase the risk for developing stomach cancer especially among those who have thin or weakened stomach lining.
Due to these potential complications, it is vital to consult a doctor if symptoms are present especially if they are chronic. With immediate treatment, the outlook for the condition is good.