How to Treat Acute Gastritis in Babies

When a baby develops acute gastritis, the first step is to identify and address the underlying cause. Treatment should be tailored according to the specific cause of the condition. If the gastritis is caused by medication, the responsible drug should be discontinued immediately, and the primary condition should be treated accordingly.

Managing Infections and Other Causes

If the cause is an infection, appropriate antibiotics should be administered to target the specific pathogen. For corrosive gastritis, which can result from the ingestion of harmful substances, it's essential to neutralize the effects of the corrosive agent. This can be done using substances like aluminum hydroxide, milk, or egg whites, depending on the nature of the irritant.

Supportive Care and Recovery

Rest and Diet

Rest is crucial for recovery, and affected infants should be encouraged to rest in bed. A bland, easily digestible liquid diet is recommended to reduce strain on the stomach and promote healing. This can include items like clear broths or mild electrolyte solutions.

Hydration and Electrolyte Balance

Dehydration is a common complication of acute gastritis, especially when vomiting or diarrhea is present. It is important to promptly address fluid loss and maintain proper hydration. Intravenous fluids may be necessary in more severe cases to correct dehydration and prevent electrolyte imbalances.

Emergency Treatment for Severe Bleeding

If the infant experiences significant gastrointestinal bleeding, it should be managed as an upper gastrointestinal bleed. This includes stabilizing the patient by restoring blood volume, administering proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid, and, in some cases, performing endoscopic procedures to locate and stop the source of bleeding.