Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach. It is very common and is often caused by a germ called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) or by painkillers such as ibuprofen and aspirin. It is usually mild and improves with treatment, but long-lasting gastritis can lead to ulcers or bleeding.
Symptoms
- Burning or gnawing pain in the upper stomach
- Feeling full quickly, or bloating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Belching
- In severe cases, black stools or vomiting blood (signs of bleeding)
Causes
- H. pylori infection, often caught in childhood from unclean water or food
- Painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and aspirin
- Smoking, naswar and alcohol
- Severe stress or serious illness
- Very spicy or oily food can make symptoms worse
Prevention
- Take painkillers only when needed, with food, and for the shortest time
- Do not smoke or use naswar
- Eat regular, smaller meals
- Drink clean, boiled or treated water and wash hands before eating
- Limit very spicy and oily food and strong tea on an empty stomach
Treatment
- Medicines that reduce stomach acid, such as omeprazole, prescribed by a doctor
- If H. pylori is found, a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medicine — take every dose
- Stopping or changing painkillers that irritate the stomach, after asking your doctor
- Small, regular meals
- Antacids for short-term relief
- Do not start antibiotics or other prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
What is H. pylori and how is it found?
H. pylori is a common germ that lives in the stomach and can cause gastritis and ulcers. It can be found with a stool test, a breath test or a test during endoscopy. If it is found, a doctor prescribes a combination of medicines to clear it.
Can I keep taking antacids every day?
Antacids are fine for occasional relief. If you need them most days for more than 2 weeks, see a doctor to find and treat the cause.