About Acute Gastritis
Acute gastritis is a condition characterized by the sudden inflammation of the stomach lining. It can occur for various reasons, including bacterial infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain medications.
Acute gastritis may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and weight loss. In more severe cases, it can lead to stomach bleeding. Prompt medical attention is necessary if symptoms of gastric bleeding, such as bloody stool or vomit, and shortness of breath occur.
Diagnostic tests for acute gastritis typically include a breath test to detect H. pylori bacteria, as well as laboratory tests on stool and blood samples. Treatment options may involve antibiotics, avoiding alcohol consumption, or adjustments to medication.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Acute gastritis can be caused by various factors, including:
- Infections
- Chemicals or stomach irritants, including alcohol, bile, medications, and chemotherapy
- Autoimmune diseases
Risk factors for acute gastritis include:
- Age: Older individuals are at a higher risk because the stomach lining tends to thin as people get older.
- Heavy alcohol consumption: Alcohol irritates and breaks down the stomach lining.
- Chronic (long-term) NSAID use: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may irritate and damage the stomach lining.
- Major surgery or injury: Major surgery or trauma increases the risk of stomach acid injury to the stomach
- Cancer treatment: Some chemotherapies and radiation therapy may increase the risk of gastritis
- Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori): Infection with H. pylori increases the risk of gastritis and other acid-related diseases of the stomach.
People with risk factors do not always develop acute gastritis. Risk factors only increase a person’s chances of developing acute gastritis. There are other risk factors. Remember, it's important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.
The most common early symptoms of acute gastritis include:
- Abdominal discomfort
- Persistent pain between the navel and lower ribs
- Nausea, sometimes with vomiting
- Poor appetite
- Belching, bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
As acute gastritis progresses or reaches higher severity, other symptoms may occur, such as:
- Severe stomach pain
- Vomiting blood
- Bloody or foul-smelling bowel movements
- Anemia, which can cause paleness, a racing heartbeat, dizziness, and shortness of breath
- Chest pain
If you experience any of these severe symptoms, it is important to seek urgent medical attention. Remember to consult with your healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
To diagnose acute gastritis, doctors may perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history: The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history to better understand your condition.
- Physical examination: The doctor will conduct a physical examination to check for signs of gastritis, such as tenderness in the abdomen.
- Endoscopy: This outpatient procedure involves using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the lining of your stomach and duodenum. During the endoscopy, the doctor may also take small tissue samples for further analysis.
- Blood tests: Blood tests can help identify markers of inflammation and possible underlying causes, such as autoimmune disorders.
- Stool tests: Stool samples may be collected to check for traces of blood or Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
- Breath test: A breath test can detect Helicobacter pylori by analyzing breath samples after ingesting a special solution.
Depending on initial findings and individual factors, additional examinations, tests or procedures may be performed, including:
- Imaging studies: X-rays of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine can provide further insights into the condition.
- Evaluations of kidney and liver function: These tests help assess the overall health of these organs.
Remember that specific examinations, tests, and procedures may vary depending on individual cases. It's essential to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding diagnosis and treatment options.
The goals of treatment for acute gastritis are to relieve symptoms, promote healing of the stomach lining, and prevent complications. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work:
Medications:
- Medications to manage stomach acid: Antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and alginates can reduce stomach acid levels or neutralize acid, which helps relieve symptoms and promote healing.
- Antibiotics: If the gastritis is caused by an infection, antibiotics can help clear the underlying infection.
Self-care and Health behavior changes:
- Stopping alcohol consumption: If alcohol is causing gastritis, stopping alcohol consumption is advised.
- Stopping the use of NSAIDs: If NSAIDs are causing gastritis, stopping their use and taking different medications is recommended, if possible. If NSAIDs continue, it is important to take them with food to help decrease direct irritation to the stomach.
Remember to consult with your healthcare professional before making any changes or starting any medications.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.