Lets to Know About Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. While the lining of the stomach is quite strong and can withstand strong acid, drinking too much alcohol, eating spicy foods, or smoking can cause the lining to become inflamed and irritated. Gastritis is a broad term for inflammation or irritation of the lining of the stomach. Gastritis can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually (chronic gastritis). The term ‘acute’ means that the attacks are short, not necessarily that the symptoms are severe.

Causes of Gastritis

Chronic gastritis may be caused by prolonged irritation from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, pernicious anemia (an autoimmune disorder), degeneration of the lining of the stomach from age, or chronic bile reflux.

It is commonly caused by aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, alcohol or from stressful situations, burns, injuries, kidney or liver disease.

Gastritis can be caused by drinking too much alcohol, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or infection with bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Sometimes gastritis develops after major surgery, traumatic injury, burns, or severe infections. Certain diseases, such as pernicious anemia, autoimmune disorders, and chronic bile reflux, can cause gastritis as well.

Treatment of Gastritis

The treatment of gastritis depends on the cause of the problem. Some causes may resolve by themselves over time, or may be relieved by stopping the ingestion of irritating substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and aspirin. Some dietary changes will no doubt be recommended, although the bland diet often prescribed in the past is no longer thought to be necessary.

Treatment usually involves taking drugs to reduce stomach acid and thereby help relieve symptoms and promote healing. (Stomach acid irritates the inflamed tissue in the stomach.) Avoidance of certain foods, beverages, or medicines may also be recommended.

Once the diagnosis of gastritis has been confirmed by a medical professional, treatment can begin. The choice of treatment depends to some extent on the cause of the gastritis. Some treatments target the exact cause of a particular type of gastritis. Most treatments aim at reducing symptoms. Your stomach often will heal over time if it is protected.

Generally, treatment for gastritis involves antacids and other medications aimed at reducing stomach acid, relieving symptoms, and promoting the healing of the stomach lining, as acid irritates the inflamed tissue. If the gastritis is related to an illness or infection, that problem will be treated as well.

The type of treatment you require will depend on the cause of the inflammation. Self-care is often the best treatment for mild gastritis. Antacid drugs such as, milk of magnesia, which can be bought from your local pharmacy, may help with the symptoms of gastritis, ask your pharmacist for advice.

Application of heat with a hot compress or hot water bottle, twice a daily, either on an empty stomach or two hours after meals, will also be beneficial.
Avoidance of certain foods, beverages, or medicines may also be recommended. Following a diet recommended for peptic ulcer sufferers may help. For recommended foods, and foods to avoid, you can follow these foods lists.