To fix gastritis, treatment primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause and reducing stomach acid. This often involves medication and lifestyle changes.
Treatment Options for Gastritis
Gastritis treatment varies depending on the specific cause, but common approaches include:
- Antibiotics for H. pylori Infection: If Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is identified as the cause, your doctor will likely prescribe a combination of antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria. This eradication is crucial for long-term healing.
- Acid-Reducing Medications:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medications, such as omeprazole and lansoprazole, work by blocking acid production in the stomach, allowing the lining to heal.
- H2-Receptor Blockers: These drugs, such as famotidine and ranitidine, also reduce acid production, although typically less effectively than PPIs.
- Antacids: These over-the-counter medications neutralize stomach acid and can provide quick relief from symptoms. However, they are typically used for short-term relief and don't address the underlying cause of gastritis.
- Lifestyle and Dietary Changes: Making changes to your diet and lifestyle can also help manage gastritis:
- Avoid Irritants: Limit or avoid alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and fatty foods, as these can irritate the stomach lining.
- Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: This can help reduce the amount of acid produced at any one time.
- Avoid Lying Down After Eating: Allow time for digestion before lying down to prevent acid reflux.
- Manage Stress: Stress can worsen gastritis symptoms. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
- Other Medications: In some cases, other medications may be necessary to treat gastritis. These may include cytoprotective agents that help protect the stomach lining.
Addressing Specific Causes
It's important to identify the specific cause of your gastritis to determine the best course of treatment. For example:
- NSAID-Induced Gastritis: If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the cause, your doctor may recommend stopping the medication or switching to a different pain reliever.
- Autoimmune Gastritis: If your gastritis is caused by an autoimmune disorder, you may need medication to suppress your immune system.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent symptoms of gastritis, it's important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms may include:
- Burning pain in the upper abdomen
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount
