Managing Chronic Superficial Gastritis: Effective Treatment Strategies

Chronic superficial gastritis is a common condition in which the stomach lining becomes inflamed. In many cases, symptoms may resolve on their own over time, and with proper care, full recovery can occur within months or years. However, appropriate management is essential to prevent complications and improve quality of life.

Identify and Eliminate Triggers

One of the first steps in treating chronic superficial gastritis is identifying and removing factors that contribute to the condition. Patients should avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, both of which can irritate the stomach lining. Reducing salt intake and correcting unhealthy eating habits are also crucial. It's recommended to consume soft, easily digestible foods while avoiding overly spicy, hot, or cold meals. Additionally, individuals should limit their intake of preserved, smoked, or spoiled foods that may aggravate the stomach.

Those who regularly take medications that can harm the stomach lining—such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin—should consult their doctor about alternatives. If there are chronic infections in the nasal or throat area, these should also be addressed as they may contribute to ongoing gastric irritation.

Medications for Symptom Relief and Healing

Several types of medications can help manage symptoms and promote healing of the stomach lining. Mucosal protectants such as bismuth subsalicylate, sucralfate, smectite, and L-glutamine-based formulas (e.g., Marzulene) are commonly prescribed to create a protective barrier over the stomach lining.

If symptoms include bloating, belching, or gastroesophageal reflux, prokinetic agents such as metoclopramide, domperidone, or mosapride can help regulate digestive tract movement and reduce discomfort.

Antibiotic Therapy for H. pylori Infection

If a gastroscopy reveals the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a course of antibiotics is typically recommended. This treatment is often combined with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and mucosal protectants to enhance effectiveness and promote healing of the stomach lining. Eradicating H. pylori is a key step in preventing recurrence and reducing the risk of more serious gastric conditions.

Reduce Stomach Acid Production

Controlling gastric acid levels is another important aspect of treatment. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 receptor antagonists are frequently used to reduce acid secretion, allowing the inflamed stomach lining to heal. These medications are especially effective in cases where acid reflux or heartburn is a prominent symptom.

Managing Abdominal Pain

For individuals experiencing significant upper abdominal pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin may be used with caution. Antispasmodic medications such as hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan) or anisodamine (654-2) can also be effective in relieving cramping and discomfort associated with gastritis.