Gastritis treatment in Florida
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Find a ProviderWhat is gastritis?
Gastritis describes irritation, inflammation, or erosion of the stomach lining. Gastritis has the possibility to increase the risk of stomach ulcers, bleeding, or stomach cancer. There are two main types of stomach inflammation. They are erosive gastritis and non-erosive gastritis. Erosive gastritis takes the lining of the stomach and erodes it, while non-erosive works differently by changing the lining of the stomach.
Acute gastritis is gastritis that comes about suddenly, and chronic gastritis occurs gradually over a period of time. A majority of the time, having gastritis doesn't cause any serious complications and can improve with proper treatment. When you're looking for the correct treatment for this condition, schedule a consultation with our GI providers at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that works for you.
What causes gastritis?
Gastritis happens when damage occurs to the mucus barrier that's protecting your stomach, and the juices from your digestive system inflame the stomach's lining. If you suffer from conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, or respiratory failure, the condition can be worse. Gastritis or chronic stomach inflammation can commonly be caused by:
- Alcohol abuse
- Chronic/extreme stress
- Vomiting
- Overuse of aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen
- Bacteria – such as H. pylori
- Bile reflux from the liver or gallbladder
- Infections from bacteria or viruses
- Eating spicy foods
- Eating fatty or fried foods
- Eating very salty foods
- Eating acidic foods like tomatoes and some fruits
- Drinking too many caffeinated drinks
- Smoking
Certain medications can also contribute to the evolution of gastritis. These medications include:
- Pain relievers (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen
- Corticosteroids
- Chemotherapy drugs
For more information on how to get the proper treatment and properly manage your gastritis, contact your nearest Gastroenterology Associates of Florida and request an appointment with one of our GI providers.
What are the main symptoms of gastritis?
A few of the main symptoms of gastritis or stomach inflammation include the following:
- Vomiting and indigestion
- Blood in vomit
- Sharp abdominal pain
- Nausea and bloating
- Burning feeling in the stomach between meals or at night
- Hiccups
- Black or tarry stools
- Burping
If you believe you've experienced any of the following symptoms, reach out to schedule a consultation with our GI providers at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida.
What are the treatments for gastritis?
The treatment available for gastritis will vary from person to person, depending on the specific cause. Among the treatments available, the most common include:
- Avoiding hot or spicy foods
- Over the counter or prescription-strength antacids
- Antibiotics
- B12 vitamin shots (pernicious anemia)
- Eliminating certain foods from your diet like dairy or gluten.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, reach out to our team at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida. We will get an appointment set up for you so that you can get the relief that you deserve.
Gastritis FAQs
What foods should I avoid if I have gastritis?
If you have gastritis, it's essential to avoid foods and beverages that can irritate your stomach lining and worsen your symptoms. Common culprits include:
- Spicy foods
- Acidic foods
- Fatty and fried foods
- Alcohol
- Caffeinated beverages
Additionally, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals to help manage your symptoms. Keeping a food diary can also be useful for identifying which specific foods trigger your gastritis symptoms, allowing you to adjust your diet accordingly.
What complications can gastritis lead to?
If gastritis is not effectively managed, it can lead to several serious complications. One potential issue is the development of ulcers in the stomach or small intestine, which can cause severe pain and bleeding. Additionally, untreated gastritis, particularly when linked to Helicobacter pylori infection, can increase the risk of stomach cancer. Chronic gastritis may also progress to atrophic gastritis, potentially leading to significant digestive problems and vitamin B12 deficiency-related anemia.
Is there a way to prevent gastritis?
Preventing gastritis or minimizing its symptoms involves several proactive strategies. Effective stress management is crucial, as stress can aggravate or contribute to gastritis. It’s important to avoid irritants such as alcohol, spicy foods, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can harm the stomach lining. Adopting a healthy diet and eating smaller, more frequent meals can also be beneficial. Quitting smoking and carefully managing the use of medications that may irritate the stomach, in consultation with your healthcare provider, are additional key measures. By incorporating these practices, you can significantly lower the risk of developing gastritis and enhance overall digestive health.
Find relief and improve your GI health
If you're dealing with the symptoms of gastritis and are looking for reliable treatment, turn to our team at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida. Each of our GI providers works diligently to help you find the solutions that will improve and enhance your GI health. Request a consultation with our providers today to get started.
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