Gastritis

Causes of gastritis include a range of factors that may irritate or inflame the stomach lining, including:

• Infection with Helicobacter pylori, the same bacterium that causes stomach ulcers
• The use of certain medications, including aspirin, ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)   
• Alcohol abuse
• Surgery, injury or trauma
• Radiation therapy
• Stress (which may trigger gastritis in some people by increasing the production of gastric secretions) 
• Extended episodes of vomiting 
• Reflux of bile from the intestines into the stomach   
• Some immune disorders and allergies
  

• Herbs that are traditionally used to relieve digestive upsets and aid the management of gastric symptoms such as indigestion and pain include marshmallow, fennel, ginger and peppermint. 
• Preliminary research suggests that in patients with indigestion (dyspepsia) who are infected with H. pylori but don’t have stomach ulcers, taking the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri may help relieve symptoms of bloating, flatulence and disordered bowel motions. Additional and larger studies will be required to confirm these effects.

• Understanding the cause of gastritis is vital to its effective management. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult your healthcare professional, who can arrange for the appropriate diagnostic investigations to be performed.
• If you have gastritis, the treatment plan will focus on decreasing your exposure to irritants, neutralising or decreasing gastric acidity and eradicating any H. pylori infection. Follow the recommendations of your healthcare professional and make sure you complete the full course of any prescribed medicines.  
• Slippery elm powder has traditionally been used to soothe irritated or inflamed mucous membranes of the digestive tract, and may help to relieve pain and promote healing. However, it may interfere with the absorption of other medicines; separate doses by two hours. 
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which may irritate the stomach lining and trigger or aggravate your symptoms.
• Stop smoking and avoid smoky environments. Smoking increases stomach acid and raises the likelihood that gastritis and ulcers will occur. It also prolongs healing time, and may thus increase the risk of complications, such as stomach cancer.
  

• The presence of blood in the vomit suggests that the stomach lining is bleeding. Seek urgent medical attention.
• If you suspect that your prescribed medicines are causing or contributing to your gastritis, consult your doctor.