Acute Gastritis What You Need To Know

Acute gastritis is a common condition characterized by sudden inflammation of the stomach lining. This typically occurs due to harmful irritants such as contaminated food or medications like aspirin and phenylbutazone, which are known to damage the gastric mucosa. Infections caused by certain microorganisms can also play a role in triggering this condition.

One of the most noticeable symptoms of acute gastritis is upper abdominal pain, often worsening after meals. Other signs may include persistent nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and even diarrhea. These symptoms indicate that the digestive system is under stress and requires immediate attention.

To manage this condition effectively, it's crucial to eliminate the underlying cause and provide proper care. For a short period, patients are advised to fast to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest and recover. However, staying hydrated is essential, and water intake should continue normally. Once symptoms like pain and nausea subside, a gradual reintroduction of food is recommended.

Medical treatment usually involves antibiotics and mucosal protectants. Intravenous administration might be necessary for severe cases involving significant vomiting. Common treatments include intravenous amoxicillin and omeprazole. Since eating might be difficult during this time, maintaining hydration and energy levels through fluids becomes critical. As the patient improves, oral medication can replace intravenous treatment while maintaining the same therapeutic approach.

Prevention plays a key role in avoiding recurrence. It's advisable to steer clear of spicy, raw, coarse, or hard-to-digest foods that could potentially harm the stomach lining. If taking medications that affect the gastric mucosa, it's best to consume them after meals and consider using additional stomach protection medication to reduce potential side effects.

Proactive prevention is the most effective strategy against acute gastritis. By understanding and avoiding potential triggers, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this uncomfortable condition.