Achlorhydria

Achlorhydria is the absence or reduced content of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice. Persistent achlorhydria, which continues despite taking large doses of histamine, is accompanied by atrophy of the gastric mucosa. In this case, there is usually a lack of secretion of a special internal anti-anemic factor in the stomach, ultimately leading to the development of pernicious (malignant) anemia.

However, in some people, achlorhydria is not accompanied by the development of any other diseases or deterioration in well-being and therefore does not require any treatment.

Achlorhydria - absence or reduced content of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice. Persistent achlorhydria, which continues despite taking large doses of histamine, is accompanied by atrophy of the gastric mucosa. In this case, there is usually a lack of secretion of a special internal anti-anemic factor in the stomach, ultimately leading to the development of pernicious (malignant) anemia. However, in some people, achlorhydria is not accompanied by the development of any other diseases or deterioration in well-being and therefore does not require any treatment.

Achlorhydria is a variant of the course of secretory hypoacid gastritis, when insufficient hydrochloric acid is released into the gastric environment. This is dangerous due to digestive disorders, for which dietary errors, overeating, and alcohol abuse become provoking factors. If left untreated, the pathology eventually leads to the manifestation of a number of serious consequences.

However, it should be noted that the manifestation of achlorhydromia does not always require mandatory medical intervention. A person may look healthy, have no other complaints or illnesses, and, accordingly, there is no need to prescribe any medications. To exclude the possibility of developing malignant changes, it is important to consult a gastroenterologist and conduct an appropriate examination. Regardless of the severity of clinical manifestations, with low acidity in the stomach, the synthesis of pancreatic enzymes is disrupted, and the breakdown of fats, proteins, and starch is disrupted. Clinical manifestations of the disease can begin suddenly, with obvious malaise, manifested by weakness and a state of increased irritability. Against the background of severe inflammation, problems with digestion are observed; they can be noticed by a change in the consistency of stool: it becomes hard and painful during defecation. After eating, unpleasant belching, heartburn, nausea, and a metallic taste in the mouth occur. Changes are noticeable in the general condition of the body, progressive fatigue, drowsiness, decreased performance occur, but at the same time, increased heart rate and abdominal pain, diarrhea and flatulence, and sleep disturbances are possible. Against this background, irritability and anxiety become generalized, so patients require the help of a psychiatrist. Diagnostic measures are determined by the indications; the doctor will prescribe an x-ray of the stomach from three angles, an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, colposcopy, tissue biopsy with a pathomorphological examination. The results also help determine the nature of the gland damage by conducting a test with insulin and other drugs that increase the secretion of hydrochloric acid.