06 May 2024

Gastritis

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, characterized by pain in the upper abdomen or stomach area.

Acute gastritis occurs when inflammation of the stomach lining happens suddenly, causing severe and temporary epigastric pain. If left untreated, it may progress to chronic gastritis.

Causes:
Acute Gastritis:

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids
2. Infection with H. pylori bacteria or viral infections
3. Alcohol addiction
4. Severe stress
5. Autoimmune diseases that cause the immune system to attack the stomach lining

Chronic Gastritis:

1. Prolonged inflammation of the stomach lining due to untreated acute gastritis
2. Long-term use of drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen
3. Certain diseases, such as diabetes or kidney failure
4. Persistent severe stress affecting the immune system

Risk Factors:

1. Smoking habits
2. Diet high in fat or salt
3. Aging, as the gastric mucosa tends to thin and weaken over time
4. Excessive alcohol consumption
5. Frequent use of pain relievers
6. Certain conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, HIV/AIDS, and Crohn's disease
7. Kidney or liver diseases

Symptoms:

1. Burning or sharp pain in the upper abdomen
2. Bloating
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Loss of appetite
5. Hiccups
6. Feeling full quickly when eating
7. Indigestion
8. Black-colored stools
9. Vomiting blood

When to See a Doctor:
Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of gastritis for more than a week or have abdominal pain causing significant discomfort.

Complications:
If untreated, gastritis can lead to serious complications, including:

1. Stomach ulcers
2. Gastric bleeding
3. Perforation in the stomach wall
4. Stomach cancer

Prevention:
Gastritis can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Steps to take include:

1. Washing hands with soap and running water before cooking and eating to prevent H. pylori infection
2. Avoiding spicy, acidic, or fatty foods
3. Eating smaller, more frequent meals
4. Avoiding lying down immediately after eating—wait 2–3 hours instead
5. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake
6. Managing stress effectively
7. Avoiding excessive use of pain relievers or using them without a doctor’s prescription

Reviewed by: dr. Shinta Hidayani Utami

Source : Alodokter Health Article

Picture : freepik.com