Gastritis

It is an inflammatory condition that occurs when stomach acid breaks through the protective membrane and burns the stomach wall. It is not a deep crater/hole like an ulcer; rather, it is superficial damage, similar to skin getting sunburned and red.

The biggest culprit is the Helicobacter Pylori bacteria that settles in the stomach. Additionally, taking painkillers/rheumatism medications (NSAIDs) indiscriminately and on an empty stomach, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, smoking, and intense stress directly damage the stomach lining.

A burning, gnawing, or crushing sensation in the upper abdomen (stomach area), extreme bloating after meals, early satiety, a frequent need to burp, nausea, and loss of appetite.

For a definitive diagnosis in a patient with stomach complaints, an Endoscopy (Gastroscopy) is performed, where a thin tube with a camera at the end is inserted into the stomach. The redness in the stomach is seen, and a tiny biopsy is taken to detect the H.Pylori microbe.

If the microbe (H.Pylori) is detected, a strong 2-week course of antibiotics is prescribed. To allow the stomach lining to repair itself, acid-reducing Stomach Protector pills and syrups are used. During the treatment period, it is absolutely essential to follow a Stomach Diet, avoiding spicy foods, spices, coffee, acidic drinks, and fried foods.