What causes gastritis?

Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
Updated on November 25, 2024
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Chronic gastritis can be divided into two main categories: chronic non-atrophic gastritis, which was previously referred to as chronic superficial gastritis, and chronic atrophic gastritis. The primary cause of chronic gastritis is generally considered to be Helicobacter pylori infection, which has a very high infection rate in our country, exceeding 50%. Moreover, inappropriate diet can also cause chronic gastritis, such as stimulation from smoking and drinking, irregular eating habits, overeating, as well as excessive consumption of raw, greasy, spicy, and other irritating foods. Additionally, emotional factors are closely related to chronic gastritis.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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How to diagnose gastritis

Gastritis is a common disease in clinical practice, generally divided into chronic gastritis and acute gastritis. Acute gastritis is most commonly characterized by abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The symptoms of chronic gastritis vary and mainly include discomfort in the abdomen, nausea and vomiting, decreased appetite, and even early satiety. For the diagnosis of chronic and acute gastritis, the preferred examination is gastroscopy. Gastroscopy includes both conventional and painless procedures, both aimed at examining the condition of the gastric mucosa. However, for some elderly patients, particularly those with underlying conditions like coronary heart disease, the risk associated with gastroscopy is higher. Therefore, if conventional or painless gastroscopy is not suitable for the patient, abdominal CT and upper GI barium meal can be chosen instead. After completing the gastroscopy, if chronic gastritis or gastric ulcers are diagnosed, it is advisable to further conduct tests to screen for Helicobacter pylori.

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Written by Huang Ya Juan
Gastroenterology
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Symptoms of gastritis

Gastritis is an acute and chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa caused by various reasons. The most common types of gastritis are acute gastritis and chronic gastritis. The common symptoms of acute gastritis include upper abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Severe cases may experience vomiting blood, fever, dehydration, and even shock. Symptoms of chronic gastritis are not specific; many cases are asymptomatic. Those with symptoms may experience upper abdominal pain or discomfort, loss of appetite, belching, acid reflux, and nausea. Symptoms are often related to food intake, and a significant number of patients may not show any symptoms at all. Patients with gastric erosion may experience minor or major bleeding, and chronic minor bleeding can lead to iron deficiency anemia.

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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What is suitable to eat for gastritis?

Due to the fast pace of modern life, people often experience high levels of stress, which can lead to poor dietary and living habits. As a result, stomach diseases have become one of the most common ailments among modern people. In addition to following medical advice for treatment, daily dietary and living habits are particularly important. First of all, we need to develop the habit of eating regularly and quantitatively, or eating small meals frequently, avoiding being too hungry or too full, and certainly not binge eating. The principle of diet should focus on light and easy-to-digest foods, such as soft, mushy rice or noodles. It is appropriate to consume fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoid consuming too much spicy, greasy, or raw and cold foods, while maintaining a good mood.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Is hot compress good for gastritis?

Gastritis is a common disease in clinical practice and is most frequently seen in gastroenterology departments. Patients often experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and belching. While local heat application can alleviate some symptoms, it does not address the underlying issue. Gastritis is generally considered to be inflammation of the stomach caused by various factors and can be categorized into acute and chronic types. From a treatment perspective, medications that reduce acid and protect the stomach are commonly used. Local heat may relieve stomach pain, bloating, and even pain caused by gastric spasms, but it is not beneficial for controlling stomach inflammation. Therefore, patients are advised to pursue active pharmacological treatment, including medications that protect the stomach. If Helicobacter pylori infection is detected during gastritis examination, treatment targeting Helicobacter pylori is recommended. (Specific medication use should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yang Chun Guang
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Does gastritis require infusion?

In clinical practice, there are many patients with chronic gastritis. If stomach pain is observed and gastritis is suspected, this condition is mostly treated with oral medication because gastritis itself is a common disease. Infusion therapy is used for those whose diets are poor and who find it difficult to eat; this impacts their ability to take medication orally, and such individuals might consider infusion therapy. However, it is still recommended to take medication orally whenever possible. Additionally, if gastritis is accompanied by mucosal erosion or severe ulcers, intravenous infusion may be considered, switching to oral medication after a few days. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)