Causes of acute gastritis

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 16, 2024
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The causes of acute gastritis are varied, primarily involving external factors, internal factors, and psychological factors. For example, irregular eating habits, consuming foods that are too cold or too hot, and overly coarse foods can all irritate and damage the gastric mucosal barrier. Additionally, some medications can directly cause congestion of the gastric mucosa, and acute gastritis can be directly caused by bacterial or viral infections. The gastrointestinal tract is regulated by various hormones, and if one is overly tense, agitated, or exhibiting symptoms of neurosis, this can affect the normal levels of the mucosa through hormonal regulation, leading to mucosal damage and triggering inflammation.

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Does acute gastritis require hospitalization?

Acute gastritis often presents with symptoms such as acute abdominal pain, bloating, acid reflux, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. The symptoms are typically more severe than those of chronic gastritis. Whether hospitalization is necessary depends on the specific symptoms. If the symptoms are not severe and the patient can eat, treatment can be achieved through oral medication. If there is severe vomiting or inability to eat, hospitalization for intravenous therapy may be needed. Additionally, acute gastric mucosal lesions caused by certain medications may lead to bleeding, which also requires hospital observation to prevent worsening of the condition. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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How to treat acute gastritis?

Acute gastritis is generally caused by drugs or stress, resulting in acute gastric mucosal injury. For treatment, proton pump inhibitors such as esomeprazole or pantoprazole can be used to suppress stomach acid. Alternatively, H2 receptor antagonists like cimetidine or famotidine can be used, but their effects are not as good as those of proton pump inhibitors. In addition to acid-suppressing medications, drugs that protect the gastric mucosa should also be used. Moreover, if there is damage to the gastric mucosa, treatments that promote the repair of the gastric mucosa, such as the recovery solution, should be applied. Diet should also be considered, ensuring it is light and regular. The cause should be clearly identified; if it is drug-induced, the drug should be discontinued, and if it is due to emotional stress, efforts should be made to soothe the emotions. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor)

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What to do if acute gastritis flares up?

Active medication is required for the recurrence of acute gastritis. The current treatment principles involve the use of medications that suppress gastric acid secretion and protect the gastric mucosa. Medications that suppress gastric acid secretion mainly include proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor antagonists. Additionally, it is important to check for Helicobacter pylori infection. If this bacterium is present, one can choose triple therapy to eradicate it or opt for traditional Chinese medicines, which are effective in regulating the spleen and stomach. For those with obvious stomach pain, antispasmodic analgesics should be used. Regular care is also particularly important, including consuming soft, easily digestible foods and avoiding spicy, stimulating, and greasy foods, especially strong tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)

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Gastroenterology
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How to treat symptoms of acute gastritis?

Acute gastritis is generally caused by consumption of unclean food or bacterial infection. The main symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and fever. The conventional treatment involves using medications that suppress gastric acid secretion, protect the gastric mucosa, and relieve spasms and pain. If there is a bacterial infection, antimicrobial drugs should be used, and for Helicobacter pylori infection, triple therapy should be applied. Regular attention should be paid to dietary habits, avoiding spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. Ensure that food is within its expiration period, and foods taken out from the refrigerator should be heated before eating. Engage in outdoor exercises to strengthen the physique and enhance the body's disease resistance. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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What foods should be avoided with acute gastritis?

Acute gastritis often presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, acid reflux, vomiting, and heartburn. Under a gastroscope, the mucous membrane often appears clearly congested and swollen, and there may even be signs of acute inflammation, such as erosion and bleeding spots. Therefore, while coordinating with medication treatment, it is crucial to pay attention to dietary habits. In terms of diet, it should not only provide nutritional support but also minimize irritation to the stomach. For example, soft foods like rice, noodles, and porridge should be staple foods. Fresh vegetables, fish soup, and meat broth can all add nutrition. Try to avoid excessively cold, greasy, spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, and very hot or hard foods. It is advisable to eat small meals frequently.