Gastritis is a disease that consists of inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which is the layer that covers the stomach superficially. The disease can manifest itself in two ways, it can be acute or chronic.
Causes of the disease
- Bacterial infection – Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that produces substances that favor inflammation of the gastric mucosa and even stomach cancer.
- Alcohol – contributes to disease when taken in excess and habitually
- Use of medication – aspirin, corticoids, and anti-inflammatories when used constantly
- Food – the consumption of very spicy foods, fried foods in excess contributes to gastritis
- Stress and anxiety
Symptoms
Chronic gastritis is usually asymptomatic, while in acute cases of the disease symptoms can be observed.
- In the most severe cases, there may be blood in the stool or vomit, due to the formation of hemorrhagic gastric ulcers
- Stomach discomfort – characterized by pain and burning
- Loss of appetite – associated with feelings of fullness
- Nausea and vomiting
Treatment
- The diet of the individual with gastritis should be low in fried foods, and should not contain hot or highly seasoned foods. You should eat in small amounts and every three hours, preventing the stomach from remaining empty, it is also important to chew and clean food well
- The use of drugs that reduce the symptoms of gastritis and protect the gastric mucosa is necessary in some cases
- Avoid the use of drugs, alcoholic beverages, and cigarettes