Gastritis is a common disorder for most people. It is an inflammation in the stomach that affects the lining of the stomach. Similar to peptic ulcers, the primary cause of gastritis is the inflammation that is associated with H.pylori, which is the bacterium that is responsible for most ulcers.
There are multiple causes that can damage the stomach lining. Some of those include: aspirin, a few anti-inflammatory drugs, poisons, alcohol, smoking, infectious diseases, and stress. When there is a continual ingesting of irritating foods or allergic reactions to foods, there will be irritation and pain in the stomach.
Occasionally, gastritis can be a result of a B12 deficiency, which is called pernicious anemia. It has also been found that individuals that suffer from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) deal with gastritis. The ability to correctly diagnose this is done by a gastroscopy. This gastroscopy allows the doctor to see the interior of the stomach, and x-rays can rule out any other structural abnormalities. Other means to diagnose would be blood counts and serum testing.
Treatment begins by curing the H. pylori with antibiotics to resolve the surface gastritis. Typically, gastritis is treated with use of antacids and medications to reduce the output of gastric acid. The individual is also put on a bland diet, with vitamin and mineral supplements. If they are also suffering from the vitamin B12 deficiency, they will get a B12 injection monthly.
It is advised to limit ingestion of hot and spicy food. It is important to follow the directions when taking NSAID’s and aspirin. If there are any issues contact your physician.