Chronic Gastritis Symptoms and Treatment Options

Understanding Chronic Gastritis

Gastritis can be classified into two main types: acute and chronic. When people commonly refer to gastritis, they are usually talking about the chronic form. The most prevalent cause of chronic gastritis is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. Additional contributing factors may include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor dietary habits, and long-term use of certain medications.

Many individuals suffering from chronic gastritis experience no noticeable symptoms and often only discover the condition during a routine endoscopic examination. For those who do exhibit signs, common complaints include upper abdominal discomfort or pain, bloating, belching, acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion-like symptoms. A definitive diagnosis typically requires an endoscopy, where biopsies can be taken for histological analysis. These tests may reveal chronic inflammation, mucosal erosion, intestinal metaplasia, or atrophy of the gastric lining.

Targeted Areas of Infection

Chronic gastritis frequently affects the antrum and angularis regions of the stomach, which correlates with the preferred habitat of H. pylori bacteria. As such, patients diagnosed with this infection should undergo a structured eradication therapy to eliminate the bacteria effectively.

Modern Treatment Approaches

Currently, the standard treatment for H. pylori infection involves a quadruple therapy regimen, meaning the simultaneous use of four different medications. Despite its effectiveness in many cases, eradication rates can be compromised due to antibiotic resistance and other individual factors.

Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments

Patients with chronic gastritis often have reduced digestive capacity and delayed gastric emptying. Therefore, it's essential to avoid overeating and consuming large meals. When the gastric mucosa is damaged, it's advisable to avoid very hot foods, cease smoking, and abstain from alcohol consumption. Spicy, acidic, or coarse foods should also be avoided as they may further irritate the stomach lining.

Smoking significantly reduces blood flow to the gastric mucosa, thereby slowing the healing process and impairing ulcer recovery. Thus, quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol are crucial steps in managing the condition. Moreover, maintaining a regular lifestyle, eating balanced meals, and ensuring adequate rest play a vital role in supporting overall gastrointestinal health.