Definition

Gastritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach's wall or mucosa layer. Inflammation can also occur in the inner region of the wall layer, known as the submucosal layer. The stomach's wall layer is coated with a thick layer of mucus that functions as a defense mechanism against bacteria and other irritants. Inflammation in the stomach wall may occur due to damage to the mucous layer caused by stomach acid or other substances.

Inflammation can occur either chronically or acutely. Acute gastritis occurs when the stomach's wall layer experiences sudden inflammation, leading to temporary but intense heartburn.

Chronic gastritis develops when inflammation persists over an extended period, and symptoms become more frequent. If this condition is consistently ignored, it can result in a structural change to the stomach's wall layer, increasing the risk of stomach cancer.

Causes

Inflammation of the stomach can occur when the protective mucosa in the stomach's wall layer is damaged. This damage is typically caused by bacterial infections, although there are other contributing factors. These causes include:

• Bacterial infection: The common bacterium associated with gastritis is Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium often infects the wall layer of the stomach, leading to inflammation. Infections typically occur in areas with poor hygiene. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary habits can also play a role.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Consuming alcohol excessively can scrape the stomach's wall layer, causing irritation and inflammation, often resulting in acute gastritis.
• Excessive painkiller consumption: Certain painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen can irritate the stomach if consumed frequently. Excessive painkiller use can impede the regeneration process of the stomach layer, making it more susceptible to injury or irritation. If a doctor recommends prolonged painkiller use, it is essential to control or visit the doctor routinely.
• Older age: The stomach's wall layer naturally thins as a person ages. Consequently, gastritis is more common in older individuals."

Risk factor

In addition to the primary causes of gastritis mentioned above, certain conditions and activities can increase the likelihood of developing gastritis. These risk factors include:

1. Poor Dietary Habits: Eating late, frequent consumption of spicy foods, and large portions.
2. Smoking Habits.
3. Viral Infections.
4. Crohn's Disease.
5. Autoimmune Conditions.
6. Bile Reflux.
7. Kidney Failure.
8. Cocaine or Drug Usage.
9. Stress.

Symptoms

Gastritis can occur without signs and symptoms until it becomes severe, as in the case of acute gastritis. Symptoms may also manifest differently in individuals, such as:

• Pain or a sensation of heat in the upper abdominal area or heartburn.
• Bloating.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Hiccups.
• Low or no appetite.
• Easily feeling full.

If there is a wound or bleeding in the stomach due to continuous or severe scraping of the stomach layer, symptoms such as black stools or vomiting blood can occur. Certain diseases, such as Crohn's disease, gallstones, or food poisoning, can also exhibit symptoms similar to gastritis. Therefore, to determine gastritis, a physical examination and additional tests are needed.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of gastritis cannot be determined solely through history-taking and symptoms; additional examinations are necessary to identify any organic damage to the stomach wall layer. If no organic damage is found, the condition is termed dyspepsia.

Patients suspected of having gastritis undergo a physical examination and history-taking with the doctor. The doctor will inquire about symptoms, onset, and the patient's general condition. Additionally, patients may be recommended for additional tests, such as:

• Helicobacter pylori Infection Testing: Various tests, including blood tests, fecal tests, and the urea breath test, can be performed to check for H. pylori infection. Blood tests can also detect anemia in patients, while fecal tests can identify blood in the stool.
• Gastroscopy: This examination involves inserting a tube with a camera through the mouth to observe signs of inflammation in the stomach. During the procedure, tissue samples may be extracted for laboratory testing.
• Imaging or X-ray: This examination assesses the condition of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Patients typically need to swallow barium before undergoing the X-ray.

Management

The management of gastritis depends on the cause and the patient's condition. Physicians typically prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms, including antacids, H2-blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. The doctor may recommend an antidiarrheal medication for diarrhea associated with gastritis, such as bismuth subsalicylate. If an infection causes gastritis, especially Helicobacter pylori, antibiotics are necessary.

In addition to medication, individuals with gastritis should make lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms and promote healing. Establishing a regular dietary schedule and consuming smaller, more frequent meals (5-6 times daily) can be beneficial. Avoiding oily, acidic, or spicy foods is also advisable.

Furthermore, it's advisable to limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking. Proper stress management can contribute to symptom reduction. If gastritis is attributed to painkiller consumption, it is crucial to consult the doctor immediately to modify the prescribed drugs.

Complications

If gastritis is not managed, it can progress into more severe conditions. This progression is linked to continuous damage to the stomach wall layer. Some complications of gastritis include:

• Upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding.
• Peptic ulcer.
• Stomach perforation.
• Anemia.
• Increased risk of stomach cancer.

Prevention

To prevent gastritis, patients need to avoid triggers that can cause symptoms. This can be achieved by eating on time, having frequent small meals, and avoiding foods that can increase stomach acid or bloating, such as coffee, spicy foods, and cabbage.

Certain foods and drinks can help prevent gastritis, including:

• High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains.
• Low-fat foods like fish, red meat, and vegetables.
• Low-acidity foods like vegetables and grains.
• Soda-free drinks.
• Caffeine-free drinks.

Consuming probiotics can also protect the stomach from H. pylori. Foods such as yogurt, kimchi, or kombucha are good sources of probiotics.

When to see a doctor?

Commonly, if someone suspects they have gastritis and wants to confirm it, they should consult a doctor. The doctor will conduct a series of tests, and if the diagnosis (gastritis) is confirmed, the individual needs to adhere to the prescribed medication properly.

Moreover, if there is no improvement after 5 days of treatment, the affected individual should schedule a follow-up consultation with the doctor. Emergency signs indicating gastrointestinal bleeding, such as blood vomiting, blood in the stool, and signs of anemia, should be taken seriously. If these signs are present, seeking immediate medical attention at the nearest doctor or health facility is crucial.