Summary about Disease
Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, irritants, and autoimmune disorders. Gastritis can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (long-lasting).
Symptoms
Symptoms of gastritis can vary widely. Some people experience no symptoms at all. Common symptoms include:
Gnawing or burning ache or pain in your upper abdomen that may become either worse or better after eating
Nausea
Vomiting
A feeling of fullness in your upper abdomen after eating only a little
Indigestion
Loss of appetite
Black, tarry stools (a sign of bleeding)
Causes
Gastritis can be caused by:
Bacterial infection: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common cause.
Frequent use of pain relievers: Such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen).
Excessive alcohol consumption:
Stress: Severe stress can trigger gastritis.
Autoimmune disorders: The body attacks the stomach lining.
Bile reflux: Backflow of bile into the stomach.
Other medical conditions: Such as Crohn's disease or sarcoidosis.
Medicine Used
Medications used to treat gastritis often depend on the underlying cause but can include:
Antibiotics: To eradicate H. pylori infection.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): To reduce stomach acid production (e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole).
H2 blockers: To reduce stomach acid production (e.g., famotidine, ranitidine).
Antacids: To neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief (e.g., Tums, Maalox).
Cytoprotective agents: To protect the stomach lining (e.g., sucralfate, misoprostol).
Is Communicable
Gastritis itself is generally not communicable. However, gastritis caused by H. pylori is considered communicable. *H. pylori* can be spread through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with saliva or other bodily fluids.
Precautions
Precautions to help prevent or manage gastritis include:
Avoid irritants: Limit alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods.
Eat smaller, more frequent meals:
Avoid NSAIDs: Use alternative pain relievers if possible.
Manage stress:
Wash hands frequently: To prevent H. pylori infection.
Cook food thoroughly: To avoid bacterial contamination.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of gastritis depends on the type (acute or chronic) and the cause.
Acute gastritis: May last only a few days to a week with treatment.
Chronic gastritis: Can persist for months or even years if untreated.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of gastritis typically involves:
Medical history and physical exam:
Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus and stomach to visualize the lining.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken during endoscopy to check for H. pylori or other abnormalities.
Urea breath test: To detect H. pylori infection.
Stool test: To detect H. pylori antigens.
Blood tests: To check for anemia.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary:
Acute gastritis: Symptoms can appear suddenly.
Chronic gastritis: Symptoms may develop gradually over time and can be intermittent.
Important Considerations
Untreated gastritis can lead to complications such as ulcers, bleeding, and an increased risk of stomach cancer.
It's crucial to seek medical attention if you experience persistent symptoms of gastritis.
Following your doctor's recommendations regarding medication, diet, and lifestyle changes is essential for managing gastritis.
If H. pylori is the cause, it is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better.