- November 9, 2016
- Posted by: emobile
- Category: Trending Topic
Emobileclinic Trending Topic
Gastritis is a gastrointestinal disorder and condition characterized with the inflammation of the stomach lining which could be acute or chronic resulting in severe medical complications such as bleeding, ulcer of the stomach and abnormal growth of cell in the stomach. It arises when the protective mucus lining of stomach becomes weakened leading to the damages of the digestive juices and the inflammation of the stomach wall.
Causes
The main cause of gastritis is the weakness of the protective mucus lining of the stomach. The associated factors that may lead to gastritis are:
Infections including bacterial, viral, fungi and parasitic infections
Excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeinated drinks
Stress
Prolong use of pain medications particularly aspirin and ibuprofen
Having any form of autoimmune disorder
Using potassium and iron supplements
Old age
Type 1 Diabetes
B-12 deficiency
HIV
Syphilis
Tuberculosis
Symptoms
The leading symptom of gastritis is abdominal pain, other common symptoms are:
Vomiting containing blood, greenish or yellow objects or particles
Nausea
Bloating
Breath shortness
Chest pain
Foul smelling stools
Seeking medical assistance
It is advisable to seek prompt medical assistance in case of any of the following conditions:
Vomiting blood and too much of greenish or yellow particles
Black or bloody stools
Shortness of breath
Abdominal pain accompanied with fevers
Fast heartbeat
Profuse sweating
Diagnosis
The diagnosis will be done following a review of the medical history of the patient and a detailed physical examination by the doctor who may order for any of the following tests:
Blood tests such as kidney and liver function evaluation
Urinalysis
Stool microscopy to check for infections
Breathing test
X-rays of the esophagus
Endoscopy
Electrocardiogram
Pregnancy test
Gall bladder evaluation
Treatments
Treatment options for gastritis include:
Using of medications such as antibiotics in case of bacterial infection and other appropriate medications to treat other possible infections as may be prescribed by the medical doctor
Using antacids to neutralize stomach acid and alleviate the symptoms of gastritis
Quit smoking and alcohol consumption
Using of histamine (H-2) blockers to minimize the production of acids
Using of antacids to neutralize the acid within the stomach
Eat little quantity of food at a time
Desist from eating spicy, fried, acidic or fatty foods
Complications
Stomach bleeding
Stomach ulcers
Stomach Cancer
Prevention
Regular washing of hands with soaps and water
Foods should be properly cooked before eating
Desist from certain medications that expose one to gastritis
Stop smoking
Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks
