Gastritis – Inflammation of the Stomach Lining, Chronic Gastritis, and Stomach Discomfort

The term “gastritis” comes from Greek and is composed of the words “gaster” (stomach) and “itis” (inflammation).

It refers to inflammation of the stomach. Gastritis is very common in Germany. According to estimates, about 23 percent of all women and 18 percent of all men experience inflammation of the stomach lining at least once in their lives.

Stomach and Esophagus /Henrie @ Fotolia

A distinction must be made between acute and chronic gastritis, which can cause different symptoms. In the acute form, symptoms begin abruptly. They often worsen after meals.

The chronic form, on the other hand, usually progresses without any specific symptoms. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and a feeling of fullness occur only rarely.

Depending on the cause, medical professionals classify gastritis into several forms.

These are:

• Type A gastritis: This is classified as an autoimmune disease
• Type B gastritis: Caused by bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori. Accounting for 85 percent of cases, it is the most common form of gastritis.
• Type C gastritis: This is a chemically induced inflammation caused by a hiatal hernia or components of bile
• Type D gastritis: This category includes collagenous gastritis and Crohn’s disease-associated gastritis
• Type R gastritis: Heartburn is responsible for its development

The causes of gastritis vary. In all cases, the gastric mucosa is intensely irritated, which severely impairs its function. Gastric juice contains stomach acid, which serves, among other things, to digest food.

In addition, stomach acid is capable of warding off germs. The stomach lining protects the deeper layers of the stomach wall from the aggressive, acidic stomach acid.

If an excess of acid develops within the stomach or if the protective layer is damaged, gastritis can develop.

Triggers for acute gastritis can include:

• Food poisoning caused by Salmonella or Staphylococcus
• Taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetylsalicylic acid
• Other medications such as cortisone and cytostatics

Other possible causes include:

• Tobacco use
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Eating foods that irritate the stomach, such as spicy foods or coffee
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Heavy meals
• Severe stress

The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is considered the most common cause of chronic gastritis. Approximately 35 percent of all German citizens are infected with this bacterium.

However, the bacterium does not cause symptoms in everyone who is infected. Helicobacter pylori bacteria have a special mechanism that allows them to survive in the acidic environment of the stomach. They produce the enzyme urease, which reduces the acidity of the environment. This, however, has a negative effect on the stomach. The alkaline environment damages the stomach lining.

The symptoms of gastritis can be just as varied as its causes. They depend on the extent of the inflammation of the stomach lining and whether the condition is acute or chronic.

A sudden onset of symptoms is typical of acute gastritis.

Patients may experience:

• stomach pain or abdominal pain
• A feeling of pressure in the upper abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• A feeling of fullness
• Belching
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• An unpleasant taste in the mouth

In the chronic form of gastritis, symptoms such as the following rarely occur:

• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Feeling of fullness

Doctors usually diagnose acute gastritis based on the typical symptoms alone. For example, the patient often experiences pain in the upper abdomen when the doctor presses on it with their hand. In contrast, doctors often diagnose chronic gastritis by chance.

A definitive diagnosis is only possible with a gastroscopy (stomach endoscopy). During this procedure, doctors insert a tube-shaped endoscope into the stomach.

This allows the doctor to examine the stomach and take small tissue samples, which are then analyzed under a microscope.

To detect the pathogen Helicobacter pylori, a urea breath test can be performed. For this test, the patient is given a urea solution.

This preparation contains labeled carbon atoms C-13 or C-14. In the case of a Helicobacter pylori infection, the bacteria metabolize the urea. At the same time, C-13- or C-14-labeled carbon dioxide is released.

Treatment for gastritis depends on the underlying cause. In some cases of acute gastritis, simply resting the stomach may be sufficient.

During this time, the patient eats nothing or only a bland diet for one to two days. It is important to drink plenty of fluids.

However, the beverages must not irritate the stomach. Alcohol, coffee, and carbonated drinks are therefore off-limits. Instead, the patient can drink water or lukewarm tea. Smoking should also be avoided. Symptoms usually improve after a few days.

In some cases, medication may also be helpful to reduce the effects of stomach acid.

The patient is usually prescribed:

• H2 receptor blockers such as cimetidine or ranitidine, which inhibit the production of stomach acid
• Proton pump inhibitors such as pantoprazole or omeprazole, which are even more effective
• Antacids, which neutralize stomach acid
• Prokinetics to treat nausea and vomiting

Antibiotics are used to kill the Helicobacter pylori bacterium.

To avoid putting unnecessary strain on the inflamed stomach, patients must pay attention to their diet. They should avoid hot, very cold, spicy, gas-producing, or sweet foods.

On the other hand, consuming flaxseed is beneficial. It contains mucilage, which promotes good health. It is also recommended to limit coffee intake and follow a low-fat diet.

Gastritis is usually easy to treat. To prevent recurrence, a stomach-friendly diet is recommended.

What exactly is gastritis?

The term “gastritis” refers to inflammation of the stomach lining. Gastritis occurs when the stomach lining is irritated by stomach acid, infection, or medications. There are two forms of gastritis: acute and chronic. The chronic form of gastritis can go unnoticed for a long time.

What causes gastritis?

Common causes of gastritis include infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and the use of pain relievers. Excessive stomach acid, nicotine, or alcohol can also cause gastritis. Type B gastritis is caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, while type A gastritis is an autoimmune form. Type C gastritis, also known as chemical-toxic gastritis, is caused by medications or bile reflux.

What are the symptoms of gastritis?

Typical symptoms of gastritis include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and belching. Acute gastritis often manifests as sudden onset of discomfort in the upper abdomen. Similar symptoms may occur with chronic gastritis, though they are often less severe. In some cases, type A gastritis can lead to anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency.

How is gastritis diagnosed?

Gastritis is diagnosed based on medical history and often through an endoscopy (gastroscopy). During the procedure, a tissue sample may be taken to test for Helicobacter pylori. Additionally, a breath test or a test for the bacterium Helicobacter pylori may be performed. The doctor uses these tests to determine which form of gastritis is present.

How is gastritis treated?

Treatment for gastritis depends on the cause. In cases of Helicobacter pylori infection, treatment involves antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors. Treatment with proton pump inhibitors reduces stomach acid and alleviates symptoms. The treatment for gastritis depends on whether it is Type A, Type B, or Type C gastritis. It is also important to avoid triggering factors and follow a suitable diet.