Inflammation of the stomach lining is referred to as gastritis, which is a medical disorder. The protective layer on the stomach lining aids in preventing stomach acid from harming the stomach wall. An inflamed stomach lining can irritate the stomach and make it uncomfortable. The degree of inflammation can cause specific gastritis symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, bloating, and indigestion are a few typical symptoms. In severe circumstances, gastritis can result in stomach bleeding, which can cause anaemia to form.
Main Causes of Gastritis
Several things can lead to gastritis. Therefore, finding the underlying reason is crucial for the best possible treatment. Some of the primary causes of gastritis are listed below:
- Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the main reason for gastritis. If left untreated, the bacteria H. pylori can cause chronic gastritis by infecting the stomach lining. Around half of the world’s population is thought to be infected with H. pylori, which can be spread through tainted food or water.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) are frequently taken to treat pain and inflammation, but they can also irritate the stomach lining and result in gastritis. The use of NSAIDs for an extended period of time, particularly at high doses, can raise the chance of developing gastritis.
- Drinking too much alcohol can be one of the major causes as well. Alcohol can irritate the lining of the stomach and increase the production of stomach acid, which can lead to gastritis. Chronic gastritis can result from heavy alcohol usage over an extended period of time.
- Stress can increase the amount of stomach acid produced, which can irritate the lining of the stomach and result in gastritis. Additionally, long-term stress can weaken the immune system, leaving one more open to infections like H. pylori.
- The immune system may occasionally assault the stomach lining unintentionally, resulting in persistent gastritis. This condition, autoimmune atrophic gastritis, can weaken the stomach lining and result in a vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Bile is a digestive fluid that is made by the liver and kept in the gallbladder. But during bile reflux in some people gastritis can develop if the bile rushes back into the stomach and irritates the lining.
Major Gastritis Symptoms
Here are some of the most commonly occurring gastritis symptoms:
- Upper abdominal discomfort or pain is one of the most typical signs of gastritis. This discomfort could be a constant ache, a burning sensation, or a quick stabbing pain. Particularly after eating, some people could feel full or bloated in the upper belly.
- The stomach condition gastritis can also cause nausea and vomiting. Although these symptoms can happen at any moment, they often happen more frequently after eating. When vomiting is intense and lasts for several days, it can sometimes result in dehydration.
- Loss of appetite, weight loss, and weariness are some more signs and symptoms of gastritis. These symptoms are frequently linked to the body’s improper nutrient absorption as a result of inflammation of the stomach lining.
- In some circumstances, gastritis can also cause gastrointestinal bleeding. This may result in dark, tarry stools or the appearance of blood in the vomit or stool. This is a significant gastritis complication that needs to be treated right away.
Types of Gastritis
Listed below are some of the common types of gastritis:
- Acute gastritis: A bacterial infection, such as Helicobacter pylori, or irritants like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) or alcohol are common causes of acute gastritis, which manifests itself quickly. Acute gastritis symptoms include nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen, and appetite loss.
- Chronic gastritis: This kind of gastritis steadily worsens over time and can be brought on by a number of conditions, such as bacterial infections, autoimmune diseases, and protracted NSAID use. Early signs of chronic gastritis are frequently symptomless, but as the condition worsens, symptoms including nausea, vomiting, bloating, and indigestion may appear.
- Atrophic gastritis: This form of gastritis is marked by the loss of stomach lining cells, which might affect the body’s capacity to create stomach acid and digestive enzymes. An autoimmune condition or persistent inflammation can both lead to atrophic gastritis. Weight loss, vomiting, and nausea are possible symptoms.
- Erosive gastritis: This kind of gastritis develops when the stomach lining is worn down or injured, frequently as a result of long-term NSAID usage or alcohol abuse. Erosive gastritis can cause symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and tarry, dark faeces.
- Radiation-induced gastritis: Radiation therapy used to treat cancer can result in this kind of gastritis. Vomiting, nausea, and discomfort in the abdomen are possible symptoms.
Ways to Eliminate Gastritis
Gastritis can develop into more severe issues, including stomach cancer and ulcers if it is not managed well in time. It’s critical for people who encounter the signs and symptoms of gastritis to consult a doctor so they can be properly diagnosed and treated.
The underlying cause of gastritis affects how the ailment is treated. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat the infection if Helicobacter pylori infection is the cause of gastritis. To lessen the quantity of acid in the stomach and encourage the healing of the stomach lining, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may also be administered.
Reducing or stopping the usage of NSAIDs or excessive alcohol if these are the causes of gastritis may assist with symptoms. Moreover, staying away from hot and acidic foods and drinks may lessen inflammation of the stomach lining.
Reducing or stopping the usage of NSAIDs or excessive alcohol if these are the causes of gastritis may assist with symptoms. Moreover, staying away from hot and acidic foods and drinks may lessen inflammation of the stomach lining.
Treatment options for those with autoimmune-related chronic gastritis may include immune system suppressants and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Conclusion
Gastritis is brought on by the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be brought on by a number of things including drinking too much alcohol, getting infected with bacteria, taking certain medications, and stress.
Gastritis symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and loss of appetite as well as minor discomfort to severe pain. If you encounter any of these symptoms, you should contact a doctor right away so that you can be properly diagnosed and treated. A healthy lifestyle can help prevent and treat gastritis by helping one stay away from triggers and eating a balanced diet.
