Chronic gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining caused by infection, injury, overuse of anti-inflammatory drugs, or chronic health conditions. Symptoms include loss of appetite, dull aches, and nausea. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics, prescription drugs, and lifestyle changes.
Chronic gastritis refers to long-term or recurring episodes of stomach inflammation. The mucus lining that surrounds the inside of the stomach can become inflamed due to infection, injury, overuse of anti-inflammatory drugs, or chronic health conditions. Many cases of chronic gastritis go undiagnosed and untreated because they cause no major symptoms. When symptoms are present, they typically include loss of appetite, dull aches and bouts of nausea. Most cases can be relieved by focusing treatment on eliminating the underlying cause.
The stomach lining is a soft but strong tissue structure. It expands to provide space for food and prevents stomach acid from escaping. If the finish is damaged, however, acids can seep into the walls and cause chronic irritation and inflammation. The most common cause of the condition is a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which is found all over the world. H. pylori is usually harmless, but it can lead to serious stomach infections in people with weakened immune systems.
Overusing over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen can also damage your stomach lining and increase your chances of developing chronic gastritis. Taking medications at or above the recommended dose daily can irritate the lining to the point of breaking it and allowing acid to escape. High levels of stress, alcohol abuse, aging, and autoimmune disorders, such as pernicious anemia, can also increase the likelihood of gastritis complications.
Some people with chronic gastritis experience no symptoms in the early stages of the disease, if at all. The most common symptoms include a dull, constant pain in the upper abdomen and difficulty eating more than very small portions of food. Weight loss is common when a person’s appetite decreases. As the disease progresses, other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and indigestion may arise. If left untreated, it can lead to painful stomach ulcers and vomiting blood.
A doctor can usually diagnose chronic gastritis by examining your symptoms and checking blood and stool samples for the presence of H. pylori. If the bacteria isn’t found, your doctor may choose to inspect your stomach lining with an endoscopic camera or an X-ray to look for signs of more damage. A tissue biopsy may be performed to determine the severity of the damage and rule out other problems, such as stomach cancer.
Treatment depends on the underlying problem. Bacterial infections usually clear up in two to four weeks with oral antibiotics. Autoimmune disorders are usually treated with prescription drugs. Patients are instructed to avoid excessive use of anti-inflammatory drugs, alcohol and coffee to reduce the chances of further harm. Additionally, practicing stress relief techniques, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy diet can help prevent gastritis from returning.
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