Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by various factors like infections, medications, alcohol, or stress, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and indigestion.
What it is:
- Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, which is a protective barrier against stomach acid and digestive juices.
- When this lining becomes inflamed, it can lead to various symptoms.
- It can be either acute (sudden and short-lasting) or chronic (long-term).
Causes:
- Infections: H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) infection, a common bacteria in the digestive system, is a major cause.
- Medications: Long-term use of certain pain relievers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen) can irritate the stomach lining.
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the stomach lining.
- Stress: Extreme stress, such as from major surgery or illness, can lead to acute gastritis.
- Other factors: Autoimmune disorders, bile reflux, and certain diseases can also contribute to gastritis.
- Diet: Some foods, like spicy or high-fat foods, can irritate the stomach lining.
Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Indigestion.
- Bloating and gas.
- Loss of appetite.
- In some cases, there may be no noticeable symptoms.
Types:
- Acute gastritis: Sudden and short-lived inflammation, often caused by infections, alcohol, or medications.
- Chronic gastritis: Long-term inflammation that can develop slowly and persist for months or years.
- Erosive gastritis: A more severe form that can cause damage and ulcers in the stomach lining.
- Non-erosive gastritis: A milder form that causes changes to the stomach lining without significant damage.
Treatment:
- Treatment depends on the underlying cause of gastritis.
- For H. pylori infections, antibiotics may be prescribed.
- Avoiding irritants like alcohol and NSAIDs can help.
- Medications to reduce stomach acid may be used.
- Lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments, can also be helpful.