What is gastritis?
Gastritis is the inflammation of the lining of the stomach. It is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, certain medications, and stress. Gastritis can also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as an ulcer or cancer.
Symptoms of gastritis:
- Upper abdominal pain or burning.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Loss of appetite.
- Indigestion.
- Bloating.
- Belching.
Causes of gastritis:
- Bacterial infection (H. pylori).
- Long-term use of over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
- Autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Injuries to the abdomen.
- Backwash of bile from the small intestine into the stomach.
Ways to manage gastritis:
- Avoid foods and drinks that irritate your stomach, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day.
- Avoid lying down within 30 minutes of eating.
- Take over-the-counter medications to reduce stomach acid, such as Pepto-Bismol or Tums.
- If your gastritis is caused by H. pylori infection, you may need to take antibiotics.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *