Gastritis or Stomach Disorders - A Problematic Disease

Gastritis is a condition where the inner lining known as mucosa gets inflamed. The stomach lining contains special cells which produce acids and various enzymes which breakdown and digests the food. ‘Mucus’ protects the stomach lining from acids. When this lining gets inflamed the amount of enzymes, mucus and acid produced are far less than the normal. At times it develops after serious surgeries, burns, severe infections, prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs and excessive consumption of alcohol. It can also infect those who recently have had a weight loss surgery or reconstruction of the digestive tract. The bacterium responsible for it is ‘Helicobacter Pylori’. Chronic bile reflux, stress and many autoimmune disorders can cause gastritis as well. Other symptoms include indigestion, bloating abdomen, vomiting, nausea and pernicious anemia. In many cases patients feel a sense of burning in their upper abdomen which can create lots of difficulties for any individual. Gastritis can be acute or chronic, severe or sudden inflammation of inflammation of the stomach lining leads to this problem. Inflammation which lasts for a long period of time is called a chronic one and if not treated can last for a lifetime.

Erosive gastritis doesn’t cause any major inflammation but can damage the lining severely and can lead to bleeding, ulcers and erosions. Helicobacter Pylori is primarily is transferrable from one person to another, areas where poor sanitation persists; food and water can be a major source of this problem. The infection rates can be higher in developing countries, as high as 80%.Asprin and Ibuprofen are two anti-inflammatory drugs which can cause it, even drugs and radiation can be major factors leading to gastritis. Vomiting, nausea, belching, bloating, loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss are few symptoms which can confirm about it. Alcohol consumption doesn’t cause any direct impact but stimulates the secretion of hydrochloric acid. It also increases the possibility of peptic ulcers. Metaplasia (mucous gland) at times causes a reversible replacement of cells which destroys gastric glands. This can cause acute damage to the body finishing a few body functions.

Diagnosis of gastritis can be made through blood tests of blood cell counts, presence of Helicobacter Pylori, pregnancy and functions of liver, kidney and gall bladder. Urine analysis, stool check (whether there is blood in stool), X-rays, ECGs, endoscopy (check for inflammation in stomach and mucous erosion) and stomach biopsy. Treatment for gastritis depends on its severity. For mild treatment antacids in liquid or tablet form can betaken. They neutralize the acid and provide immediate relief. Cimetidine, ranitidine, nizatidine and famotidine are medicines which reduce the amount of acid stomach produces. Milk is also an effective way of keeping the stomach lining safe and provides quite a relief. Antibiotics help in killing the bacteria while liquid medications help in finishing off the excess acids produced. If the cause of gastritis is pernicious anemia vitamin B 12 shots shall be given to the patient. Lastly it isimportant to keep in mind that gastritis is an infection which should be dealt with immediately otherwise consequences can be damaging.