What is acute gastritis?

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 07, 2024
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Acute gastritis is caused by various reasons leading to acute inflammation of the gastric mucosa, primarily due to stress, medications, infections in the stomach, and bile reflux. The main symptoms include upper abdominal pain, accompanied by nausea and vomiting, often with enteritis causing diarrhea, bloody stool, and signs of dehydration. The treatment for acute gastritis is mainly symptomatic, with timely fluid replenishment through intravenous hydration. Additionally, bed rest is recommended, along with cessation of all gastric irritants in food or medications, and fasting if necessary. For abdominal pain, local heat application or the use of antispasmodic analgesics can be considered; generally, anti-infection treatment is not required.

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Gastroenterology
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Causes of acute gastritis

There are mainly three causes for the onset of acute gastritis: First, excessive fatigue, due to lack of rest and physical overexertion, can lead to a decline in immune function and the protective function of the gastric mucosal barrier, resulting in the occurrence of gastritis. Second is irregular eating habits, such as frequent binge eating, consuming spicy foods, and a preference for alcohol, strong tea, or coffee, all of which can significantly irritate and damage the gastric mucosa. Third is emotional fluctuations, such as being irritable, depressed, or anxious, which can directly affect the gastrointestinal tract through neurohumoral regulation and cause acute gastritis.

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Gastroenterology
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What IV fluids should be administered for acute gastritis?

The choice of medication for intravenous therapy in acute gastritis focuses on suppressing gastric acid secretion, protecting the gastric mucosa, and the rational use of antibiotics. It is also important to replenish fluids and electrolytes to maintain sodium-water balance. During treatment, attention should be paid to regular eating habits, consuming more vegetables and fruits to add dietary fiber. Additionally, the main diet should consist of soft, easy-to-digest foods, such as millet porridge, rice soup, or vegetable soup; it is advisable to avoid raw, cold, spicy foods and to stay away from strong tea, coffee, and hard liquor to prevent damage to the gastric mucosa. Regular, timely meals should be adhered to, along with developing a regular routine of living habits. After recovery, appropriate outdoor exercises should be conducted to strengthen the physique and maintaining a positive mindset plays an active role in preventing gastrointestinal diseases.

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Gastroenterology
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What should I do about acute gastritis and stomach pain?

Stomach pain caused by acute gastritis is usually due to inflammation irritating the gastric mucosa. It can be managed with medications that suppress stomach acid secretion, protect the gastric mucosa, and relieve spasms and pain. Additionally, using a warm water bottle on the abdomen can help alleviate stomach pain. Regular care for the gastrointestinal tract is important, including eating soft, easily digestible foods and avoiding spicy, irritating, and greasy foods. Engaging in outdoor activities and maintaining overall physical and mental health can also benefit the stomach. It is advisable to avoid strong tea, coffee, and hard liquor, which can further irritate the stomach.

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Gastroenterology
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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.

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Gastroenterology
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What are the symptoms of acute gastritis?

Acute gastritis is mostly caused by unhygienic dietary habits and is more common in summer. The symptoms mainly involve gastrointestinal irritation, such as nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite. Active pharmacological treatment should be given for acute gastroenteritis. Commonly used medications include those that suppress gastric acid secretion, protect the gastric mucosa, and antibiotics. During treatment, it is advisable to eat small, frequent meals consisting primarily of soft, easily digestible foods, and to avoid cold, spicy, or irritating foods. (Please take medication under the guidance of a doctor.)