Gastritis Specialist

What is gastritis?

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach mucosa (its inner lining). Acute gastritis happens suddenly, often causing more obvious symptoms, while chronic gastritis usually develops slowly. 

Chronic gastritis can cause severe mucosal damage, potentially leading to peptic ulcer disease, tumors, and polyps. In some cases, chronic gastritis increases the risk of stomach cancer.

What are the symptoms of gastritis?

If you experience symptoms, you may have: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pain in your upper abdomen
• Poor appetite
• Sensation of upper abdomen fullness after meals

Gastritis may cause bleeding in your stomach, resulting in dark stools and vomiting blood (which may appear like coffee grounds).

What causes gastritis?

Many different factors may contribute to or directly cause gastritis, including: 

• Bacterial infection - Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori)
• Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) 
• Excessive drinking (alcohol)
• Stress
• Certain foods, like spicy foods
• Thinning of the stomach lining as you age
• Autoimmune disorders (autoimmune atrophic gastritis) 
• Chronic bile reflux
• Anemia (pernicious anemia) 

People with some other gastrointestinal disorders, like Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, have an increased incidence of gastritis.  

How is gastritis diagnosed?

Gastritis diagnosis starts with an exam and review of your symptoms. If your Michiana Gastroenterology, Inc provider suspects gastritis, they may recommend: 

• Stool test
• Breath test
• Blood test
• Upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD), possibly with a biopsy 
• Upper gastrointestinal series (X-ray of your upper digestive system)

Depending on the situation and your other health concerns, you may need other tests as well. 

How is gastritis treated?

Gastritis treatment varies from one person to another, based upon the cause of your condition. Some of the different types of medication that can help with gastritis include: 

• Antibiotics, typically lasting 7-14 days
• Proton pump inhibitors to block stomach acid production
• Histamine blockers to reduce stomach acid production
• Antacids to neutralize stomach acid

In addition, your provider may recommend some changes in your current routine. For example, if you take NSAIDs frequently, your provider may recommend swapping them for acetaminophen pain relievers. Reducing alcohol intake is another way to fight gastritis.

Your provider may recommend a diet that’s rich in foods that can help prevent H. pylori growth, such as cabbage, cauliflower, and berries. 

If you have upper abdominal pain or other digestive issues, reach out to Michiana Gastroenterology, Inc for a prompt evaluation and expert care. Book an appointment by calling the office nearest you or click the provided link now.