Gastritis And Gastroduodenitis

Gastritis and gastroduodenitis: causes, symptoms and treatment

Gastritis and gastroduodenitis are among the most common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. They are common among students, especially in spring and autumn, when stress and poor nutrition can lead to digestive problems. Gastritis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach, and gastroduodenitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum.

Gastritis and gastroduodenitis can be acute or chronic. Acute forms of the disease occur for the first time and occur with intense symptoms, while chronic forms are characterized by periodic attacks of symptoms. If acute gastritis is not treated, it can progress and become chronic.

The causes of gastritis and gastroduodenitis can be varied. Poor diet, such as eating spicy, hot and rough foods, alcohol, irregular meals and dry food, can contribute to the development of these diseases. Stress, infections, taking certain medications and certain diseases of other organs such as the gallbladder, liver and pancreas can also cause gastritis and gastroduodenitis.

With gastritis and gastroduodenitis, the mucous membrane of the stomach and/or duodenum is damaged, which leads to disruption of the stomach and its ability to digest food. This can cause symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. Deterioration in general condition, fatigue and decreased performance can also be associated with gastritis and gastroduodenitis.

Severe forms of gastritis and gastroduodenitis can lead to bleeding from the stomach and duodenum, which is potentially dangerous. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor promptly for diagnosis and treatment.

To diagnose gastritis and gastroduodenitis, the doctor may conduct an examination and prescribe several tests, such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy, X-ray examination of the stomach or ultrasound. In the case of chronic gastritis, a study of gastric secretion and a biopsy of the gastric mucosa may also be performed.

Treatment for gastritis and gastroduodenitis depends on its type, cause, and severity of symptoms. Your doctor may recommend the following treatment approaches:

  1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes: Avoid spicy, fatty, spicy and sour foods, alcohol, caffeine and smoking. Eating small meals regularly and avoiding overeating may also be helpful. Stress management and getting enough sleep are also important.

  2. Medicines to reduce stomach acid: Your doctor may prescribe medications that reduce stomach acid production, such as proton pumps or antacids. They help protect the stomach lining and reduce symptoms.

  3. Anti-inflammatory drugs: In case of inflammation of the mucous membrane, drugs may be prescribed that reduce inflammation and protect the stomach tissue.

  4. Antibiotics: If gastritis or gastroduodenitis is caused by an infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to kill it.

  5. Drugs that protect the mucous membrane: To protect the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum, drugs that help restore it can be prescribed.

  6. Avoiding irritants: It is important to avoid medications that can irritate the stomach lining, such as some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

In addition to drug treatment, your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes and eliminating risk factors that contribute to the development of gastritis and gastroduodenitis.

It is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You should not self-medicate or ignore symptoms, especially if they become chronic or worsen.