Chronic gastritis
Chronic gastritis is an inflammation of the mucosa (lining) of the stomach which persists for a prolonged period of time, and thus leads to abdominal pain.
The lining of the stomach contains glands which secrete several important compounds, among them the enzyme pepsin and hydrochloric acid. Pepsin breaks down protein in the presence of hydrochloric acid.
Due to the highly corrosive properties of the hydrochloric acid, the stomach lining produces mucous to protect itself.
Chronic gastritis is a condition which fundamentally consists on the disruption of the lining of the stomach. The lining of the stomach, which acts as a barrier, is composed of a thick layer of mucous. This layer covers the mucosa of the stomach.
The lining is also composed of the epithelial tissues which produce the mucous. Mechanical, chemical or physical factors may disrupt the mucous barrier. This leads to damage of the mucosa of the stomach.
In cases of atrophic gastritis, there is a decrease in the acidity of the stomach, due to lowered levels of hydrochloric acid. These are considered pre-cancerous conditions, which can lead to the development of a cancer.
Chronic gastritis is an inflammation of the mucosa (lining) of the stomach which persists for a prolonged period of time, and thus leads to abdominal pain.
Causes of chronic gastritis are nutritive factors, alcohol consumption, the presence of Helicobacter pylori, smoking, certain medication, poisoning at the workplace, fungal gastritis, hypovitaminosis, etc.
Some of the symptoms of chronic gastritis are: pain in the epigastric region (upper abdomen), loss of appetite, weight loss, heartburn, indigestion, bloating, etc. You should immediately refer to a medical professional if: you are vomiting blood, you have a very rapid heartbeat or other mentioned symptoms.
Chronic gastritis is diagnosed by doing: test for Helicobacter pylori, full blood count and fibrogastroscopy.
Treatment without medication: adjusting one’s diet, in order to include all fruits and vegetables, foods high in probiotics, lean meats (low fat), beans, tofu, as well as whole grain, fiber rich foods, etc. Treatment with medication: antacids, including calcium carbonate, etc.