The enemy of the stomach - gastritis. How to recognize and overcome it?

WHAT IS GASTRITIS?

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, caused by various irritants or infections. This inflammation can be acute, with symptoms appearing suddenly, or chronic, developing slowly over time and sometimes going unnoticed. Often, in the early stages, gastritis symptoms may be mild or absent, but as the inflammation progresses, pain, discomfort, and other unpleasant sensations may occur.

The inflammation is most commonly caused by a Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection, which damages the stomach lining and increases the impact of stomach acid. Other factors that contribute to gastritis include poor nutrition – frequent consumption of fatty, spicy, acidic foods, alcohol consumption, smoking, stress, the use of certain medications (especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen), and autoimmune conditions.

HOW TO RECOGNIZE GASTRITIS?

Gastritis symptoms can vary greatly – from slight discomfort to severe pain, so the disease often goes unnoticed until it significantly disrupts daily life. The most common signs are:

• Burning or aching pain in the upper abdominal area – often felt after eating or on an empty stomach
• Nausea, sometimes accompanied by vomiting
• Heartburn, acid reflux
• A feeling of fullness after eating a small amount of food
• Loss of appetite, sometimes weight loss
• Black, tarry stools or traces of blood in vomit (in severe cases)

However, some people may not feel any symptoms for a long time, especially in cases of chronic gastritis. Therefore, it is important to listen to the signals of your body and consult a doctor if you experience persistent stomach discomfort.

WHAT CAUSES GASTRITIS?

Gastritis can develop due to many different factors, which can be divided into external and internal causes. One of the most common is a Helicobacter pylori infection, which damages the stomach lining and triggers inflammation. This bacterium is widespread around the world, but not everyone infected experiences symptoms.

Another significant cause is the use of certain medications, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications reduce the production of prostaglandins that protect the stomach lining, making it more sensitive to acid. In addition, the stomach lining is irritated by alcohol and smoking – these habits weaken the protective barrier of the stomach.

Diet also plays a role: frequent consumption of fatty, spicy, marinated, or acidic foods can contribute to the irritation of the lining. Stress is considered a risk factor for gastritis as well, as it stimulates acid production and slows down the renewal of the stomach lining. For some people, gastritis develops due to autoimmune processes, when the immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach cells.

HOW TO OVERCOME GASTRITIS?

The treatment of gastritis primarily depends on its cause, so it is very important to undergo accurate tests. Usually, a doctor will recommend:

• Blood, stool tests – to detect H. pylori infection or signs of bleeding.
• Endoscopy – to examine the stomach lining and assess possible damage.
• If gastritis is caused by H. pylori, treatment involves antibiotics combined with acid-suppressing medications (proton pump inhibitors). If medications are the cause, the doctor may adjust the prescribed drugs or recommend additional protection for the stomach.

Lifestyle and dietary changes are also essential. It is recommended to:

• Avoid fatty, spicy, acidic, or very hot foods.
• Refrain from alcohol and smoking.
• Eat smaller portions but more frequently.
• Manage stress and ensure proper rest.

Natural remedies such as chamomile, calendula, or flaxseed teas may also help alleviate symptoms, but they should not replace doctor-prescribed treatment.

Gastritis is a common but often underestimated condition, with symptoms frequently attributed to simple stomach irritation. Recognizing the first signs in time and identifying the cause of inflammation allows for effective prevention of the disease's progression. It is important to pay attention to your body's signals, maintain a balanced diet, avoid harmful habits, and consult specialists when necessary.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

1. „Helicobacter pylori Infection“ – Mayo Clinic
2. „Gastritis“ – Cleveland Clinic
3. „Gastritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments“ – Medical News Today
4. „What Is Gastritis?“ – Johns Hopkins Medicine
5. „Gastritis – Diagnosis and Treatment“ – WebMD
6. „Gastritis“ – National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

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