What is gastritis?
Gastritis occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed after it's been damaged.
Common causes are
Regularly using over the counter pain medicines like ibuprofen [NSAIDs class of medicines]
H. pylori bacterial infection.
Excessive alcohol use, cocaine use.
Stress, insomnia.
Autoimmune reaction
What are the symptoms of gastritis?
Indigestion
Burning discomfort in the pit of the stomach, gnawing sensation
Feeling sick
Feeling full after eating
What should I do if I have symptoms of gastritis?
Consult your healthcare provider.
How is gastritis diagnosed and treated?
Test for H. pylori infection with stool test, breath test.
Looking at the stomach with the camera [endoscopy]
Barium swallow
Acid lowering medicines, antibiotics based on lab results.
How can I lower my risk of Gastritis?
Avoid NSAIDs
Avoid alcohol, smoking.
Healthy dietary habits, daily exercise, maintain normal body weight.
Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
Avoiding foods that irritate the stomach such as spicy food, acidic or fried foods.
Stress management, sleep hygiene.
Location of Stomach in the abdomen
