Gastritis in Little Rock, AR
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Find a ProviderWhat is gastritis?
Gastritis is a term that primarily is defined as the inflammation, irritation, or damage of the protective lining of the stomach. Gastritis, also known as inflammation of the stomach, may raise the chance of stomach ulcers, stomach bleeding, or cancer of the stomach. The two most common types of stomach inflammation include erosive gastritis and nonerosive gastritis. Erosive gastritis wears away the lining of the stomach while nonerosive gastritis alters the stomach lining.
Gastritis could arise quickly (acute gastritis) or transpire gradually over time (chronic gastritis). In most cases, gastritis does not cause severe complications and improves quickly with treatment. When you are looking for care for gastritis in Little Rock, AR relief is accessible. To obtain treatment for this condition, work with a digestive health specialist at GastroArkansas by contacting us to request a consultation today.
What causes gastritis?
Gastritis usually occurs when damage is done to the mucosal barrier that covers your stomach, and the digestive juices can inflame the lining of the stomach. This condition could be more severe for people who have conditions such as liver problems, kidney disease, and lung conditions. Typically, chronic stomach inflammation or gastritis could be due to:
- Cigarette smoking
- Infections – like Helicobacter pylori
- Consuming very salty foods
- Excessive stress
- Consuming fatty or deep-fried foods
- Eating spicy foods
- Consuming too many caffeinated beverages
- Bile reflux from the gallbladder or liver
- Taking excess amounts of aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, like Ibuprofen
- Infections from bacteria or viruses
- Eating acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits
- Excessive drinking
- Throwing up
The use of certain medications could also cause the progression of gastritis. These medications include:
- Pain relievers (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Corticosteroids
To hear additional details on how to adequately manage and get treatment for your gastritis in Little Rock, AR reach out to your nearby GastroArkansas location and request a consultation with a gastroenterologist.
What are some common signs of gastritis?
Some of the primary symptoms of gastritis or stomach inflammation are:
- Throwing up or nausea
- Throwing up blood
- Severe pain in the stomach
- Heartburn
- Gas or fullness
- Gnawing sensation in the stomach when your stomach is empty
- Hiccups
- Tarry or black stools
- Burping
How is gastritis treated?
The solution for gastritis varies from person to person, according to what is causing it. The most common ways to treat gastritis include:
- OTC or prescription heartburn medications
- Antibiotics
- Vitamin B12 supplements (to treat a deficiency)
- Eliminating some foods from your consumption, like gluten or dairy products.
- Not eating spicy or hot foods
If you are suffering from one or more of the above indicators, please contact our Little Rock, AR gastroenterology team. Our specialists will provide the right care as well as the ease that you deserve.
Gastritis FAQs
What foods should I avoid if I have gastritis?
If you're dealing with gastritis, it's crucial to steer clear of foods and beverages that can aggravate your stomach lining and worsen symptoms. Generally, you should avoid the following:
- Spicy foods
- Acidic foods
- Fatty and fried foods
- Alcohol
- Caffeinated beverages
Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help manage symptoms effectively. Additionally, maintaining a food diary can be beneficial to identify which specific foods trigger your gastritis symptoms, allowing for better dietary management.
What complications can gastritis lead to?
If untreated, gastritis can lead to a number of serious complications. Common problems include the development of ulcers in the stomach or small intestine, which can result in severe pain and bleeding. There is also an increased risk of stomach cancer, especially in cases associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. Chronic gastritis can progress to atrophic gastritis, which may cause digestive issues and potentially lead to anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency.
Is there a way to prevent gastritis?
Indeed, there are effective strategies to prevent gastritis or alleviate its symptoms. Managing stress is crucial, as it can intensify or contribute to the onset of gastritis. Avoiding irritants like alcohol, spicy foods, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can harm the stomach lining, is essential. Maintaining a healthy diet and opting for smaller, more frequent meals can also provide relief. Additionally, quitting smoking and carefully managing the use of medications that might irritate the stomach, under the supervision of a healthcare provider, are key preventative measures. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly lower your risk of developing gastritis.
Allow us to help you feel better
Gastritis can alter your health and well-being in several ways. If you're experiencing the indicators of gastritis and seeking where to turn for help, you can rely on our experts at GastroArkansas. Our providers are expertly experienced and dedicated to helping you benefit from solutions that elevate your digestive health. To receive assistance for gastritis in Little Rock, AR, connect with one of our local GastroArkansas specialists now to request a consultation.
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