How To Find Relief From Stomach Pain Caused By Chronic Gastritis

Chronic gastritis can cause persistent and uncomfortable stomach pain, especially during flare-ups. Knowing how to manage the pain effectively is essential for those dealing with this condition. Here are practical steps to alleviate discomfort and support long-term healing.

When experiencing acute stomach pain, it's important to act quickly to reduce discomfort. Over-the-counter antispasmodic medications such as hyoscine (Buscopan) or dicyclomine (Bentyl) can help relieve cramping and spasms in the digestive tract. Drinking warm water or a glass of warm milk may also soothe the stomach lining and provide temporary relief.

Once the immediate pain has subsided, the focus should shift to long-term management and treatment of chronic gastritis. The most common cause of chronic gastritis is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, which should be addressed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. A standard treatment approach is the quadruple therapy, which includes a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as omeprazole to reduce stomach acid, two antibiotics (common choices include amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, or tetracycline), and a bismuth-containing compound like colloidal bismuth subcitrate to protect the stomach lining.

In addition to antibiotic therapy, patients may benefit from a four-week course of acid-reducing medications such as omeprazole or rabeprazole. These medications help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mucosal protectants like sucralfate or bismuth subsalicylate can also be used to coat the stomach lining and aid in tissue repair.

Lifestyle and dietary changes are equally important in managing chronic gastritis. Avoiding irritants such as spicy foods, alcohol, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin can prevent further damage to the stomach lining. It's also beneficial to maintain a balanced diet, manage stress, and avoid excessive use of unnecessary medications.

By combining medical treatment with healthy lifestyle choices, individuals suffering from chronic gastritis can significantly reduce symptoms and improve their overall digestive health.