Gastritis Treatment: Which Medical Department to Visit and What You Need to Know

Gastritis is a condition that falls under the scope of gastroenterology, which deals with disorders of the digestive system. If you're experiencing symptoms of gastritis, it's recommended to visit a digestive medicine department or gastroenterology clinic for proper diagnosis and treatment.

There are two main types of gastritis: acute gastritis and chronic gastritis. Acute gastritis often occurs due to stress, dietary habits, excessive alcohol consumption, accidental ingestion of strong acids or alkalis, or infections. These factors can lead to sudden damage to the stomach lining. In such cases, visiting a gastroenterology department is usually sufficient for care. However, if severe vomiting of blood occurs, indicating acute erosive hemorrhagic gastritis, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary, and a trip to the emergency department would be appropriate.

Chronic gastritis is further divided into chronic non-atrophic gastritis and chronic atrophic gastritis. For individuals diagnosed with chronic non-atrophic gastritis without complications like erosion or bile reflux, treatment may not always be required, especially if there are no noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms do appear or when conditions like mucosal erosion or bile reflux are present, symptomatic and supportive treatments are typically advised.

One important consideration in managing chronic gastritis is testing for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. If detected, specific eradication therapy should be undertaken to eliminate the bacteria, as it plays a significant role in the development of gastritis and related complications.

In addition to conventional Western medicine, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) also offers alternative treatment options for gastritis. Many patients choose to consult TCM gastroenterology departments or integrative medicine clinics where both Eastern and Western approaches are combined for a holistic treatment plan.

Whether opting for modern medical treatments or natural remedies, early diagnosis and appropriate management are key to preventing complications from gastritis. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider in the digestive health field to ensure you receive the most effective care tailored to your condition.