Don’t ignore pain and discomfort post eating. What may start out as gastritis, could lead to stomach cancer if left untreated. Gastritis is an inflammation (swelling) of the stomach lining causing irritation and uneasiness. It can be both acute (mild/common) and chronic (severe/rare).
Gastritis can occur because of multiple reasons, such as:
Bacterial infection: Helicobacter pylori or H. pylori is a bacterial species residing in the inner mucous membranes of the stomach. This bacterium is the most common cause of stomach ulcer which can also cause stomach cancer if remain untreated.
Bile reflux: a bile backflow into the stomach through the bile duct can be a reason for gastritis.
NSAIDs: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can induce gastritis. These medications are used for treating arthritis and muscular pains, however, can affect the protective mucus lining of the stomach, causing inflammatory effects, and ulcers.
Other factors: In some rare cases, stress (physical or mental) can induce gastritis.
But, the reason why stress leads to gastritis is still not known. Autoimmune reactions, alcohol consumptions, age, viral infections like HIV, Crohn disease, and plastic infections are among other factors that can cause gastritis.
The signs and symptoms of gastritis include:
- Frequent upset stomach
- Nausea or vomiting like feeling
- Bloating stomach
- Pain in the abdominal region
- Indigestion
- Uneasiness and stomach inflammation after meals
- Swelling in stomach
- Hiccups
- Lost appetite
- Bloody or black-coloured vomiting
- Black-coloured stool
Gastritis can be easily diagnosed over a simple blood test, stool test, or through endoscopy. It can be treated with antacids, H2B, and PPI drugs. To avoid gastritis condition, changing a diet plan is recommended which includes a big no to a spicy meal. Also, lactose and gluten-free dietary habits are suggested for a healthy stomach.
Alcohol And Drug Usage
Alcohol and certain drugs can cause either acute or chronic gastritis, depending on the usage. They can cause chemical erosion of your stomach lining also known as erosive gastritis. Some recreational drugs such as cocaine, may also cause it.
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders when the immune system mistakenly attacks your body’s cells causing chronic inflammation and autoimmune gastritis. This in most cases happens abruptly.
Reduced Blood Supply
One of the main causes of acute gastritis is a major surgery, trauma, or critical illness. These factors cause your body to withdraw blood supply from your digestive system redirecting it towards vital organs. This lowers your stomach lining’s defense, making it vulnerable to substances.
Disclaimer
The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.
