Many people associate "gastritis" with discomfort in the stomach after eating, sometimes accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Some even consider gastritis synonymous with indigestion. However, gastritis is a specific medical term used by pathologists when they observe damage or inflammation in the stomach lining under a microscope. Gastritis can be further classified into acute and chronic forms. Let's hear from Dr. Navin Sakhrani, a specialist in Gastroenterology & Hepatology, as he explains.

1. 6 Key Symptoms of Gastritis

Gastritis symptoms can vary from person to person, and different types of gastritis may present with distinct signs. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

You may experience upper abdominal pain, discomfort, or a bloated sensation. This pain may worsen or alleviate after eating.

Nausea and vomiting are often present, particularly noticeable in the morning or on an empty stomach.

Loss of appetite and reduced food intake are common.

Certain types of gastritis may lead to diarrhea or constipation.

You may feel a burning sensation in the stomach or acid reflux, which may be more pronounced at night or when lying down.

Additional symptoms such as dry mouth, bad breath, or belching may accompany gastritis.

It is important to note that gastritis symptoms can overlap with those of other conditions. Therefore, if you experience any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to seek timely medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional.
   

2. Acute vs. Chronic Gastritis

3.Treating Gastritis: Strategies for Relief

The treatment of gastritis varies depending on the underlying causes and symptoms. Here are some common approaches:

Prescription medications to reduce stomach acid and neutralize its levels are often prescribed. These may include H2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors.
 

If Helicobacter pylori infection is detected, a combination of antibiotics and high-dose proton pump inhibitors may be prescribed to eradicate the bacteria.

Pain relief medication may be necessary for patients experiencing discomfort. Whenever possible, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided and replaced with alternative pain relievers, such as prescription medications containing acetaminophen.

It is important to note that the treatment of gastritis should be individualized and guided by healthcare professionals. For severe gastritis symptoms like severe vomiting, diarrhea, or gastric bleeding, immediate medical attention should be sought to avoid complications and delay in treatment.

4. What to Eat with Gastritis

For individuals with gastritis, diet plays a crucial role in managing symptoms and promoting healing. Here are some foods that are generally suitable for individuals with gastritis:

Mild and easily digestible foods: Examples include rice porridge, noodle soups, steamed fish, and boiled eggs.

High-fiber foods: Incorporate vegetables, fruits, whole wheat bread, and oats into your diet.

Low-fat foods: Opt for lean meats, skinless chicken breast, and fish.

Non-irritating foods: Cooked vegetables, fruits, rice balls, and plain biscuits are gentle on the stomach.

Probiotic-rich foods: Consider including yogurt, sauerkraut, and tofu in your meals.

It is essential to remember that gastritis symptoms and dietary preferences can vary among individuals. It is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to create a personalized diet plan that suits your specific needs and to avoid foods that may irritate the gastric lining, potentially worsening gastritis symptoms. Additionally, practicing portion control, avoiding excessive eating or drinking, and maintaining good food hygiene can help prevent gastritis.

5. Guarding Against Gastritis

The key to preventing gastritis lies in avoiding factors that can irritate the gastric mucosa. Here are some common preventive measures:

Practice mindful eating: Avoid overeating, binge drinking, and prolonged fasting. Steer clear of excessively spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. 

Maintain food hygiene: Ensure that you consume clean and safe food to minimize the risk of gastritis.

Manage stress: Incorporate stress management techniques into your routine, such as adequate rest and regular exercise.

Avoid alcohol and smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can irritate the gastric mucosa and contribute to gastritis.

Use medication cautiously: Minimize the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and other medications that can irritate the gastric lining.

Prevent Helicobacter pylori infection: H. pylori infection is a common cause of gastritis. Taking preventive measures to avoid H. pylori infection can effectively reduce the risk of gastritis.

6. Foods to Avoid with Gastritis

When it comes to preventing gastritis, it's important to take a comprehensive approach in various aspects of daily life. By implementing holistic preventive measures, you can effectively reduce the risk of gastritis.

Intermittent fasting has gained popularity, with the 16:8 fasting method being one of the most common. Research suggests that fasting may alleviate inflammation, enhance metabolism, and potentially have a positive impact on gut microbial ecology. However, substantial and rigorous medical studies are still needed to provide definitive evidence. It's crucial to note that if you already have acute gastritis or a more severe form of chronic gastritis, you should exercise caution with fasting. Prolonged fasting may worsen gastritis symptoms, so it's advisable to consult a gastroenterologist before embarking on any fasting regimen.

Many women have a fondness for desserts. While there is currently no medical evidence directly linking excess sugar consumption to gastritis, high sugar intake can have adverse effects on the digestive system. Excessive sugar is difficult for the intestines to absorb, leading to increased water content in the intestines and potentially causing diarrhea. Moreover, when sugar is fermented by bacteria in the gut, it can produce gas, leading to abdominal discomfort. In recent times, there has been a surge in popularity of zero-calorie beverages, particularly among women who appreciate the absence of calorie burden. However, it's important to note that the sweet taste of these beverages often comes from sugars that cannot be absorbed by the digestive system. As a result, they can exacerbate symptoms of abdominal discomfort and diarrhea more severely compared to other beverages.

Many people enjoy spicy foods like spicy hot pot and sour and spicy noodles. However, indulging in these stimulating foods requires caution, especially for individuals with gastritis. Failure to do so can potentially exacerbate gastritis symptoms. Dr. Navin Sakhrani shares an anecdote where a patient mistakenly received an extremely spicy serving of spicy noodles, far exceeding their desired level of spiciness. Despite reluctantly consuming the dish, the patient experienced daily stomach pain for over two weeks. Upon undergoing an endoscopy, severe inflammation of the stomach was discovered. It took several months of medication and a bland diet to finally bring the symptoms under control.