Gastritis

Struggling with the persistent discomfort of gastritis is a common experience. This inflammation of the stomach lining can disrupt daily life, but effective relief is possible.

A close-up view of the stomach lining showing signs of inflammation and irritation, characteristic of acute or chronic gastritis.

What is Gastritis?

Gastritis is a general term for a group of conditions with one thing in common: inflammation of the stomach lining. An infection from the same bacteria responsible for most stomach ulcers, or damage from irritants such as alcohol or certain painkillers, typically causes this inflammation.

The condition can be either acute or chronic:

This involves sudden, severe inflammation that appears quickly.

This involves long-term inflammation that can last for years if left untreated, sometimes leading to more serious issues like ulcers or an increased risk of stomach cancer.

Gastritis may be uncomfortable, but it is highly treatable. Addressing the underlying cause is essential to reducing inflammation and healing the stomach lining.

Causes and Risk Factors

Gastritis occurs when the stomach's protective barrier is weakened or damaged, allowing digestive juices to inflame the lining.

Several factors can contribute to this breakdown:

This is the most common cause. These bacteria reside in the stomach lining and, if left untreated, can cause chronic inflammation and ulcers.

Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin can irritate the stomach lining.

Alcohol can directly irritate and erode the stomach lining.

In some cases, the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks the cells that make up the stomach lining.

Symptoms of Gastritis

The symptoms of gastritis can be vague and are often mistaken for simple indigestion. While some people experience no symptoms at all, others may notice:

  • Gnawing or burning pain.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Feeling of fullness.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Bloating.
  • Black, tarry stools.

Diagnosing Gastritis

The first step in effectively treating gastritis is accurately identifying its cause.

An evaluation may include:

Symptoms, lifestyle, and medication use are discussed to identify potential triggers.

H.pylori tests can be conducted through a simple breath, stool, or blood test to detect the bacteria's presence.

An upper endoscopy involves guiding a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera down your throat to directly examine the stomach lining. This procedure provides a clear view of any inflammation and allows us to take small tissue samples (biopsies) to test for H. pylori or other cellular changes.

Treatment and Management of Gastritis

Treatment for gastritis focuses on reducing stomach acid and eliminating the underlying cause.

Effective treatment strategies may involve:

If you test positive for this infection, a course of two or more antibiotics combined with an acid-reducing medication is prescribed to eliminate the bacteria.

  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These drugs block the cells that create stomach acid, promoting healing.
  • H2 Blockers: These medications reduce the amount of acid released into your digestive tract.

Avoid alcohol, stop NSAID use, and eliminate foods that seem to worsen your symptoms, such as spicy, acidic, or fried foods. Managing stress can also play a supportive role.

Find Relief for Gastritis in Westlake or Brooklyn, OH

At North Shore Gastroenterology, we provide expert diagnosis and compassionate care for patients with gastritis and other complex digestive disorders. Contact our Westlake or Brooklyn, OH, locations at (440) 808-1212 or request an appointment online to schedule a visit.