Gastritis and its symptoms. How and with what to treat gastritis of the stomach

With the development of inflammatory lesions on the gastric mucosa, patients begin to experience severe painful symptoms and disturbances in digestive activity. This disease often manifests itself against the background of starvation or too strict diets, poor diet, abuse of spicy foods and alcoholic beverages.

Even stress and depression can cause such an inflammatory lesion. But regardless of the etiological factors, any gastritis is always accompanied by painful sensations.

Where and how does the stomach hurt with gastritis?

Painful symptoms during gastritis can vary according to several criteria and signs.

• If the pain syndrome is long-lasting and pronounced, then this is an extremely unfavorable manifestation. Such pain indicates an exacerbation of inflammation. Similar sensations occur with or, and can also occur against the background of concomitant pathologies such as cholecystitis.
• Some patients may experience nighttime hunger pain.
• An aching pain syndrome of moderate intensity usually worries patients with prolonged inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Such sensations are usually accompanied by a feeling of fullness, discomfort and heaviness.
• If the pain is stabbing, sharp character, then this indicates a gastric ulcer or catarrhal type.

The type and intensity of pain and the duration of the attack are determined by the stage and type of the pathological process. Only an experienced specialist during examination will be able to determine the causes of pain symptoms and prescribe the necessary diagnostic tests.

Why does it happen?

Exacerbations of pain in gastritis sufferers may occur due to the entry of food into the stomach. Usually, within a quarter of an hour after eating, a nasty sucking sensation begins in the epigastric region.

Also, the cause of pain can be disturbances in the diet. Often, when eating dishes prepared in violation of diet rules or with the addition of prohibited foods, patients begin to experience fairly intense and prolonged stomach pain.

Some gastritis sufferers pain symptoms occurs against the background of stress or strong psycho-emotional experiences.

A cup of strong or strong alcohol can also provoke a painful attack. Particularly common are cases when gastritis reminds itself of itself with intense pain after coffee or a cigarette consumed on an empty stomach.

Localization

Inflammatory lesions of the gastric walls are characterized by localization of pain in the epigastric region. In severe forms of inflammation, abdominal pain becomes intense and acute, radiating to the chest area.

1. With chronic gastritis, patients are constantly bothered by heaviness, pain and heartburn;
2. In the area of ​​the upper half of the stomach, patients feel painful distension and pressing sensations;
3. Chronic inflammation, in addition to pain, is also manifested by a strong burning sensation, up to, constant feeling fatigue and dizziness, unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Against the background of gastritis pathologies, pain symptoms never occur acutely and unexpectedly, unless the patient has a perforation of the ulcer.

Usually, with gastritis inflammation, pain symptoms arise gradually, over 10-15 minutes the symptoms increase until they reach a peak. The pain also subsides gradually.

Head

Gastritis affects not only the digestive and gastrointestinal systems, but also affects the nervous system structures, so headaches and migraines, dizziness with gastritis are not uncommon. Such pain is a consequence of intoxication due to the accumulation of gases in the intestines.

Also, nervous system disorders against the background of gastritis manifest themselves in the form of nervousness and sleep disturbances, increased fatigue and apathy.

Gives it to the back

In many patients, pain periodically radiates to the back area, which makes gastritis sufferers think about problems with the spine. To identify the exact causes of such pain, you need to undergo a high-quality and thorough examination.

Typically, such back pain due to gastritis occurs in patients who suffer from inflammation of the mucous membranes on the posterior gastric walls. With such pain, patients try to take a forced position in order to somehow relieve severe pain.

Kinds

Each gastritis form has its own typical painful manifestations, which differ in location, nature, duration, time of occurrence, etc.

• With inflammation of type A (), a decrease in acidity occurs, and gastric secretions lose biochemical and physiological functions, which significantly disrupts the processes of absorption of nutritional components. The pain with such gastritis has a nagging, aching character and is accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and fullness after eating in the hypochondrium and upper abdomen. There is usually no pain on an empty stomach.
• With type B gastritis, the acidity of the stomach increases, and Helicobacter pylori dominates the digestive system. The pain with such inflammation is nagging and dull or sharp and cramping. If the form of the pathology is acute, then the painful symptoms become cutting and stabbing. The pain is localized in the epigastric zone.
• In the catarrhal form of gastritis, which occurs due to the use of alcohol and medications, intoxication with stale food, pain in the stomach is strong but short-lived, the pain is stabbing and cutting and is accompanied by general intoxication, vomiting, belching, etc.
• When there is a return to the gastric cavity. Painful symptoms can occur several hours after eating, as well as at night and during long breaks between meals. Hunger pain is typical for this form of pathology.
• Phlegmonous gastritis is accompanied by purulent exudate on the mucous membrane, symptoms of acute intoxication (hyperthermia, vomiting and diarrhea, dizziness). Painful sensations are relieved by taking milk or antispasmodics, but not for long. Urgent treatment is needed.
• The corrosive form of gastritis affects the deep layers of the gastric mucosa. As a result, patients experience an unbearable and painful burning sensation in the chest area, acute abdominal pain, and constant headaches. To reduce pain, the patient tries to find a position in which the pain will not be as intense.

If any pain occurs, it is necessary to undergo an appropriate examination, because the disease is easier to treat while it has not yet developed to advanced conditions. If you have epigastric pain, you should contact a gastroenterologist, who will prescribe appropriate therapy.

Video about species pain symptoms for gastritis:

How to relieve the symptom?

When gastritis worsens, pain significantly reduces the patient’s quality of life.

If an attack catches a gastritis sufferer outside the home, then you can escape from the pain syndrome with the help of antacid medications that coat the inflamed walls and reduce gastric acidity. If you don’t have such a medicine on hand, you can drink milk or a glass of water with a spoonful of soda.

If spastic pain occurs, you can eliminate the unpleasant symptoms by taking an antispasmodic like No-shpa or chamomile decoction. It is useful to take a gastric collection for pain symptoms. Since pain symptoms occur mainly after food, it is better to take decoctions or antacids after it.

If digestive processes do not function, then taking them will help start them up, and heartburn can be stopped with the help of Maalox or Phosphalugel. To prevent pain from bothering you, it is recommended to completely stop drinking alcohol, coffee, and smoking.

Strict adherence to dietary recommendations, exclusion of hot and spicy foods from the diet, thorough chewing of food and adherence to fractional nutrition principles will also help prevent the development of pain syndrome.

If acute pain occurs against the background of an exacerbation chronic gastritis, then you need to clear your stomach of food that irritates it and of hydrochloric acid.

To do this, you need to drink a lot of water and induce vomiting. It is better not to eat anything for 2 days so that the stomach is completely rested and does not overstrain. You can drink non-carbonated alkaline mineral water, chamomile or rosehip tea.

For any exacerbation, it is recommended to consult with a gastroenterologist, and only then take any medications. Self-medication can aggravate the clinical picture of the pathological process and lead to the formation of gastric ulcers and even cancer.

Considering the modern way of life of a person, many of us have encountered the problem of inflammation of the gastric mucosa, and we know what gastritis is. Due to the self-healing ability of the glandular tissue lining the inner walls of the stomach, the disease often goes unnoticed. However, the process of pathological deviation can take on an acute and even chronic form. The acute phase of the disease affects the internal epithelium of the stomach walls. The problem is aggravated by the presence of infectious pathogens. The chronic form of gastritis (we will look at the symptoms and treatment in the article) lies in wait for those people who did not see a doctor in time, did not take preventive measures and neglected treatment in the early stages.

The role of the stomach in digestion

Before we find out what gastritis is, let's talk about what role the stomach plays in our body. It is a muscle with a hollow structure. Being part of the digestive system, this organ is located between the esophagus and the duodenum, and has a number of properties.

1. Mechanical and chemical processing of food products arriving after primary processing from the oral cavity through the esophagus. The accumulated food mass, after enzymatic and hydrochloric acid action, moves into the intestines.
2. Suction of a whole range useful substances. This process occurs in almost all organs of the digestive system. The stomach is dominated by the absorption of large amounts of water, dissolved mineral salts, a small amount of amino acids and glucose molecules.
3. Protective and bactericidal function. If the excretory function of the kidneys is impaired, the stomach takes on this role. Gastric juice has a strong bactericidal effect, adversely affecting the activity of microorganisms. This mainly occurs due to monobasic hydrochloric acid.

Signs of acute gastritis

Acute gastritis can develop under the influence of various chemical, mechanical or bacteriological factors. Typical signs gastritis are: malaise and acute pain in the epigastric region. A state of nausea and even vomiting is possible. In such cases, food debris will contain mucus and bile. There are general feelings of weakness in the body. In exceptional cases, the patient’s blood pressure decreases, the pulse quickens, and the skin becomes pale. If elevated temperature the patient’s body is a symptom of gastritis, treatment must be started immediately, as ignoring it can lead to serious complications.

Recognizing the disease

Medical recognition of the disease using gastroscopy reveals swelling and redness of the lining of the stomach. The course of the disease progresses with pinpoint hemorrhages and erosions. For more accurate diagnosis Doctors recommend doing an electrocardiogram. Under symptoms similar to gastritis, an acute attack of myocardial infarction can occur, which gives pain not in the heart area, but in the epigastrium.

Acute phase treatment

Treatment of gastritis in the acute phase is carried out by gastric lavage and administration of drugs such as "No-shpa", "Platifillin" or "Papaverine". In severe cases, urgent hospitalization and administration of saline, which is a liquid containing 5% glucose, is necessary. The method of treating gastritis with antibiotics should be used only when there is an obvious bacteriological factor.

Causes of the disease

What is gastritis? What can trigger it? The determining factors for the occurrence of gastritis of the stomach are called:

1. Food poisoning low quality products.
2. Chemical intoxication with reagents and toxic compounds.
3. Pathogenic effects of pathogenic microflora.
4. Physical overstrain of the body, taking into account physiological characteristics.
5. Failure to comply with the basic principles of proper nutrition and food intake.

There are several main causes of this disease. First of all, a prerequisite for the occurrence of gastritis can be a prolonged disturbance of the acid balance in the gastric environment. An imbalance of acid and alkali in the stomach occurs under the influence of hydrochloric acid. Any deviation of its composition from the norm leads to dyspeptic disorders and other problems of a motor-secretory nature. The acid-base state of gastric juice can be low, high or within normal limits.

• Bactericidal reasons.

The spiral-shaped gram-negative bacterium may be a predisposing factor in the development of gastritis. According to some data, Helicobacter pylori microbes lead to functional abnormalities of the immune system in more than 80% of recorded cases of stomach diseases. Actively moving along the inner surface, bacteria attach to the mucous layer. This is followed by accelerated synthesis of amidase enzymes. Under the influence of urease, a local change in acidity occurs, which we'll talk Further.

• Low acidity level.

• High level of acidity.

Contrary to popular belief, increased gastric acidity is much less common than hyposensitivity. Overactivity of the fundic glands leads to excess internal secretion, which threatens the appearance of ulcers not only in the stomach, but also in the digestive canal. Acute pain and heartburn bother the patient. To correctly diagnose gastritis with high acidity and differentiate it, it is necessary to use instrumental medical examination. The basic procedures for determining acid-related diseases are probing and pH measurements. The most accurate data can be obtained using the second method, when sensors measure acid levels directly from the stomach.

• Reflux gastritis.

This is another form of the disease when the digestive mechanism deviates from the norm due to the reverse flow of food masses from the duodenum through the sphincter of the gastric pylorus. Typically, this valve has a thickening of the circular layer, which is responsible for regulating the flow of substances from the stomach towards the intestines. Pyloric fibers should prevent the return of food debris.

The main danger of food backflowing into the stomach cavity is bile and enzymatic fluid, which corrodes the mucous layer and surface of the stomach walls. Reflux gastritis can be a pathology of chronic duodenitis, a postoperative complication of the digestive tract, an intramuscular disorder of the sphincters, or a side factor after taking certain painkillers.

Gastritis of duodenal reflux develops after retrograde release of contents from the initial section small intestine. This is facilitated by various inflammatory processes occurring in this area, in which pressure increases. As a result, the reverse sphincters fail to cope, and cardia insufficiency develops, that is, weakness of the lower gastric valve.

The reasons are often congestion in the duodenum. Biliary form of this disease may be triggered by insufficient muscle contraction of the pylorus or a coordination violation of the sequence of these contractions between the stomach and intestines.

Classification of degrees of acute form of the disease

What is acute gastritis, and what are its degrees known? This will be discussed further.

• Catarrhal gastritis.

The catarrhal period of inflammation of the mucous membrane is caused by a systematic violation of the diet or mild stage poisoning. This form includes all the key signs of gastritis.

• Fibrinous gastritis.

The fibrinous degree of gastritis acts as a secondary disease in more severe infections such as diphtheria or tuberculosis. The lesions are concentrated on the walls of the stomach and look like a protein film. Scar tissue appears due to poorly soluble fibrin.

• Necrotic gastritis.

Necrotic, severe gastritis is associated with the fibrinous form of the disease directly for the same reasons. However, it is caused by the ingress of pronounced chemicals, when necrosis of some areas occurs as a result of acid poisoning. Liquation necrosis is characterized by impregnation of the affected area with calcium salts. In this situation, the phenomenon of petrification is observed, when calcium salt deposits appear on the necrotic area. With this condition of the tissues of the digestive tract, surgical intervention is required. medical intervention.

• Phlegmonous gastritis.

A purulent form of gastritis, which affects not only the mucous and submucosal loose tissue, but even the muscular frame of the organ. This type of disease is usually associated with previous injuries, open ulcers or tumor growth. If the serous membrane is affected, the disease is dangerous with serious complications in the form of perigastritis or peritonitis, when food masses penetrate into the abdominal cavity. Without urgent medical measures, the victim faces death.

Chronic form of the disease

The chronic form of gastritis is manifested by inflammation of the gastric mucosa over a long period of time. The course of the disease progresses in a undulating manner, in the form of sharp exacerbations and subsequent sluggish remissions.

Symptoms of gastritis of the stomach depend on the composition and level of acidity of stomach juice. With relative secretory insufficiency of the stomach, heaviness in the abdomen and aching pain in the epigastric region are predominantly felt. Feelings of fullness and nausea persist after eating. The patient may complain of constant regurgitation. Due to stomach discomfort, many begin to limit themselves in the amount of food they eat. In turn, this affects the entire body and leads to weight loss. Additional troubles include a tendency to diarrhea. Often the stool becomes liquid, mushy, but without blood or mucus.

When examining a patient by palpation of the abdomen, chronic gastritis is characterized by moderate pain in the epigastric region. Gastritis with normal or increased acidity of gastric juice mainly occurs in young people. In addition to pain, the disease is accompanied by heartburn after eating, belching with a sour aftertaste and the likelihood of constipation. Often the surface of the tongue is covered with a rich white coating. Often, along with gastritis, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the duodenum (duodenitis) develops. Then the symptoms of gastritis of the stomach are of a slightly different quality.

Diagnosis of the chronic form of the disease

The determination occurs using the same gastroscopy method as during the acute phase of the disease. Based on the data obtained, and relying on information from the patient, a conclusion is drawn about the condition of the mucous membrane. Changes in the gastric mucosa can be significant - swelling and varying degrees of redness, widespread distribution of the process (the so-called total lesion) - or partial (only certain areas are affected). The damaged surface of the stomach may become eroded and show signs of atrophy. Study internal structure X-ray will help exclude a number of diseases, including stomach cancer or peptic ulcer. The clinical course of these diseases is very similar. Although its defining significance this type examination has still been lost, but it remains relevant in some cases when the patient’s condition is unstable and does not allow other procedures to be performed. To determine adequate treatment for gastritis, it is necessary to find out the level of acidity of gastric juice using a probe. Other acid test methods (using tablets) will only give approximate results.

Treatment of chronic gastritis

The chronic form of the disease involves A complex approach to treatment. A properly selected diet should be combined with a group of drug therapy drugs. Medicines in relation to the mucous membrane and walls of the stomach perform enveloping and restorative functions. As a rule, doctors prescribe antacid and adsorbent medications. It is recommended to take medications some time after eating. The tablets reduce the intensity of mucosal inflammation and allow the stomach to resume its normal functioning. For better functioning of the digestive system, enzymes are used that break down complex food structures into simpler elements.

Under no circumstances should you treat gastritis yourself. The symptoms of various forms of the disease are quite similar. Before starting therapy, you need to determine the type of disease, and this can only be done by a specialist.

Atrophic focal gastritis

Focal atrophic gastritis is mildly expressed by slight discomfort and an unpleasant burning sensation in the epigastric region. However, a feeling of heaviness and nausea can occur even after eating a light meal. The work of locally affected cells is compensated by healthy epithelial tissue. After ignoring the first signs of atrophic gastritis, heartburn, loss of appetite and a sluggish increase in temperature are added.

This disease refers to the chronic form of gastritis, when parietal cells gradually disappear. In other words, the number of parietal cells responsible for the production of hydrochloric acid decreases. In turn, all this leads to a lack of vitamin B12 and threatens megaloblastic anemia. Due to the process of destruction of the parietal glands, the mucous layer in the stomach gradually becomes thinner. A progressive disease damages the bottom of the stomach and gradually affects its walls. Proper treatment started in a timely manner can prevent the development of atrophic gastritis into a cancerous tumor.

Inflammation of the antrum of the stomach

Antral gastritis is called chronic inflammation of the pyloric part of the stomach. In another way, this disease is called group B gastritis, when the causative agent is a bacterium called Helicobacter Pylori. The comfortable habitat for this pathogen ranges from 4 to 6 in terms of pH acidity. Under aggressive conditions, the bacterium adapts and takes on an inactive form. When the right moment comes, it can again infect healthy organ cells. The enzymes produced by the bacterium have a detrimental effect on the intragastric environment. Under their influence, urea is converted into ammonia, and the mucous layer loses its normal viscosity. After this, the harmful microbes move to the lower, so-called antrum of the stomach (hence the name - antral gastritis). Penetrating into epithelial cells, they actively multiply. The integrity of the tissues is disrupted, which subsequently leads to complications in the functioning of the secretion glands.

Diffuse gastritis

The prerequisites for this are degenerative processes in the tissues of the stomach. The division of cells of the secretory glands occurs incompletely, so the degeneration of tissues does not end properly. Over time, healthy cells are increasingly replaced by immature ones. Gastric depressions in the form of pits will act as clear evidence of this disease.

Erosive form of the disease

The appearance of erosive wounds in the gastric mucosa is often a consequence of stressful situations. The reason for the appearance may also be the change in the spring-autumn seasons, when psychological perception intensifies. Improper and irregular nutrition also contributes to the development of erosive gastritis. Complete restoration of areas affected by erosion depends on the specific case, which has its own characteristics. Sometimes wound healing is slow, then treatment is delayed for several months.

At erosive form Gastritis pain component is an order of magnitude higher than with other types of the disease. This fact is directly related to food consumption. It happens that this is due to the condition of the stomach walls, and is complicated by internal bleeding. Erosive gastritis does not depend on the level of acidity. This diagnosis can only be made by resorting to gastroscopy.

Giant hypertrophic gastritis

Very rare view gastritis, which is otherwise known as Ménétrier's disease. Manifested by nutritional dystrophy of the lower extremities and lumbar region, partial anemia of the affected areas. The disease develops against a background of general exhaustion, as a result of a progressive metabolic disorder. Main clinical signs are not only but also pain in the epigastric region, nausea, and periodic vomiting that are normal for the disease. There is a decrease in the amount of proteins in the blood due to changes in the structure of the mucous membrane of the affected organ. Thanks to gastroscopy, wide swollen folds of the mucous membrane are recognized. A blood test, in such cases, shows a reduced level of hemoglobin and protein (hypoproteinemia). Treatment must be carried out only in a hospital setting.

Prevention of gastritis

1. Striving for proper nutrition and a balanced diet. Try to avoid excessive consumption of food, especially in popular establishments fast food. Fragrant meat or fish dishes can have exceptional taste, but at the same time provoke irritation of the mucous membranes. A large number of additives and spices disrupt the functioning of the tubular glands, which negatively affects the entire epithelium. In addition, nutritionists insist on the mandatory alternation of solid and dry foods with liquid dishes.
2. Pay attention to the quality of water and food consumed. If the quality of the products is in doubt, it is better not to use such products for cooking. Strictly track appearance and the smell of food when visiting public cafeterias. If possible, ask sellers for quality certificates or declarations of conformity, if they are provided for this type of product. When purchasing food, focus on natural ingredients and avoid artificial ingredients.
3. One of effective ways To prevent any manifestations of gastritis is to adhere to the diet. Today, food culture is becoming an increasingly relevant topic. Quite a lot important role set a schedule for eating. By adhering to the established time and regularity in this matter, you can normalize the level of gastric secretion.
4. It is worth noting that diet is not only relevant for gastritis. Excessive stress on the stomach during overeating not only contributes to the appearance of gastritis, but can lead to obesity. The situation will be aggravated by a feast in the late evening. Control the amount of food you eat.
5. It is a well-known fact that calm, pleasant music has better digestion. Doctors recommend taking your time and chewing food thoroughly without being distracted by other processes.
6. Smoking does not directly affect the condition of the gastric mucosa, but in combination with alcohol or other factors, it indirectly provokes changes in its composition. Counterfeit alcohol products often caused not only inflammation, but also dangerous chemical burns. Abuse of alcoholic beverages leads to irreversible consequences throughout the body. A disease such as gastritis is no exception.
7. Features of working with poisonous and chemical compounds involve the use special means protection. When these substances accidentally or intentionally enter the digestive tract, erosive and ulcerative forms of gastritis develop.
8. To prevent gastric abscess, it is necessary to strictly and timely treat purulent-inflammatory processes of an infectious nature.

Diet for gastritis with high acidity

Food consumption must be reduced to a fractional method: frequent meals in small doses. If Helictobacter microbes are present, spicy foods and alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the daily diet. The diet for gastritis involves the predominance of a variety of vegetables and fruits in the diet. Moreover, they can be consumed both fresh and boiled. Almost any diet for gastritis excludes the consumption fatty foods. During an exacerbation period, you should minimize the consumption of dishes containing potatoes, boiled rice or oatmeal. During a gastritis recession, meat-containing products of the highest category can be added to the daily diet.

Restriction in food for gastritis of low acidity

First of all, a diet for gastritis of the stomach with a low level of acid should be focused on stimulating the proper functioning of the organ. Activation of gastric secretion occurs under the biochemical influence of certain substances contained in meat broths, soups, borscht, as well as in products made from whole grain flour. They have a stimulating effect as fresh vegetables, as well as fermented and pickled products.

Allowed drinks when sick

A diet for gastritis includes not only the right food, but also drinks. Some are well absorbed, reduce the level of acid in the stomach, and partially neutralize it. These include jelly and milk, but in both cases you should not assume that these liquids will replace medicines. They can be used as a supplement to dry food.

It is recommended to drink weakly brewed tea chilled. It is undesirable to consume acidic citrus juices. Juices interspersed with pulp are suitable for these purposes: banana, pear or tomato. The juices should be at room temperature. Mineral alkaline waters will help you cope with the disease faster. The diet for gastritis excludes the consumption of any types of sweet carbonated water.

A large number of people suffer from inflammation of the stomach, which is also called gastritis. Often this disease does not last too long, since the mucous membrane of the organ is able to recover, leading the person to a speedy recovery. Pathology can have an acute and chronic form. If inflammation of the stomach occurs together with other infectious diseases, gastritis takes on an acute form, in which the epithelium of the stomach is affected. Research for such a disease cannot always be carried out on time. Let's look at what gastritis is, symptoms and treatment. The diet prescribed for this pathology will also be considered.

What causes gastritis?

The inflammatory process of the stomach occurs when its mucous membrane is damaged, and this depends on the following reasons:

• consumption of low-quality products, eating disorders, eating hastily;
• bad teeth;
• lack of protein and vitamins, due to which the production of gastric secretions is significantly reduced;
• bad habits;
• long-term medication use;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• disturbance of intestinal microflora, exposure to pathogenic microorganisms and viruses.

But the main cause of gastritis is the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which is found in 85% of registered cases. Also, a violation leads to the appearance of pathology normal functions the human immune system, as a result of which the body begins to produce substances that cause damage to the stomach. This autoimmune form of gastritis is characterized by a low hemoglobin content in the blood.

Symptoms of the acute form of the disease

Acute inflammation of the stomach always occurs unexpectedly, and leads to damage to the body by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, as well as overeating, consumption of harmful foods, allergies to certain foods, nervous disorders. Pathology of this form manifests itself as follows:

• heat;
• unpleasant belching, which is accompanied by halitosis;
• vomiting of undigested food, often mixed with blood;
• headache and severe dizziness;
• pain in the epigastrium;
• heaviness in the stomach;
• a white coating forms on the tongue;
• excessive salivation or excessive dryness;
• diarrhea, constipation, flatulence;
• weakness, loss of appetite.

Types of acute gastritis

Simple - develops when the body enters stale food contaminated with pathogenic microbes due to an allergy to any food product, if the gastric mucosa is damaged by many medications. With this type of gastritis, only the surface layer of the mucous membrane is destroyed, and as soon as the effect of the irritating factor stops, it is quickly restored.

Erosive - develops from a chemical burn of the gastric mucosa with alkalis or concentrated acid. In this case, not only the superficial, but also the deep layers of the mucous membrane are destroyed, subsequently provoking the occurrence of a peptic ulcer or the formation of scars.

Phlegmonous - is a purulent inflammation of the walls of the stomach, which can develop due to the entry of a foreign object into them, such as a fish bone, resulting in a pyogenic infection in this area. This occurs with high temperatures and severe pain in the underside area. In this case, urgent surgical intervention, without which there is a high risk of peritonitis, ending in the death of the patient.

Fibrinous - occurs extremely rarely against the background of sepsis.

If the correct treatment is prescribed, acute gastritis lasts for about a week.

Chronic inflammation of the stomach: symptoms

The transition from acute to chronic form occurs due to frequent relapses diseases, poor quality treatment, long-term exposure irritating factors to the mucous membrane. This pathology can lead to anemia.

Chronic inflammation of the stomach manifests itself as follows:

• unpleasant taste in the mouth;
• the occurrence of aching pain and heaviness in the upper;
• belching and heartburn;
• constipation;
• lack of appetite.

These symptoms may not occur in the chronic form.

This inflammation of the stomach can be accompanied by high and low acidity. In the first case, severe belching, heartburn, and halitosis are observed. At reduced level acidity, the patient begins to feel very sick, severe gas formation occurs. The patient begins to lose weight sharply, his hair and nails break, and his skin becomes excessively dry.

Diagnostics

The disease is diagnosed using tests such as:

• gastroscopy - examination of the gastric mucosa with special equipment;
• biopsy;
• laboratory research;
• stool and blood analysis.

During diagnosis, a specialist must determine the true cause of the disease. Further therapy will depend on this.

Treatment Basics

If gastritis (inflammation of the stomach) occurs, you should consult a doctor who will prescribe the correct treatment. It must be comprehensive, with the simultaneous intake of necessary medications, adherence to a diet and a proper regimen.

The duration of treatment depends on the nature of the disease and the presence of concomitant diseases of the body and averages 3-4 weeks when using medications.

Use of drugs

The doctor prescribes medications taking into account individual characteristics the patient’s body and the causes of this disease.

Since the pathology develops mainly due to penetration into the stomach cavity Helicobacter bacteria pylori, then treatment should be carried out using antibacterial agents that have wide range actions, in combination with antacid drugs that help protect the mucous membrane.

Basic medications which are used for gastritis:

• enveloping - “Phosphalugel”, “Almagel”, “Gastal”, “Maalox”;
• antibiotics - Furazolidone, Clarithromycin, Amoxicillin, Metronidazole, Amoxiclav;
• means for reducing the acidity of gastric juice - Ranitidine, Omeprazole, Omez;
• antispasmodics and painkillers - “Platifillin”, “No-shpa”, “Metacin”, “Pentalgin”;
• gastroprotectors that protect the gastric mucosa from the effects of hydrochloric acid - “Bismuth”, “De-nol”, “Venter”;
• enzymes that improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract - “Festal”, “Pancreatin”, “Mezim”, “Gastal”, “Pangrol”;
• hormones that are necessary for additional protection of the stomach;
• if severe nausea and vomiting occur, you should take Cerucal or Metoclopramide.

Diet

Inflammation of the stomach is treated not only with medications. You must adhere to a special diet.

If you have gastritis, you should definitely exclude fried, salty foods, fatty meats, smoked foods, sour fruits, and rich broths. Food should be prepared without using large amounts of salt and spices. It is recommended to eat porridge from various cereals, boiled meat, boiled fish, low-fat broth, and jelly every day.

The diet for such a disease should be prepared by a specialist. Nutrition should be different depending on the acidity of the stomach. If it is elevated, it is necessary to consume foods that help reduce the production of hydrochloric acid. These can be milk soups, steamed or stewed vegetables, juices from sweet fruits. For low acidity, foods such as lean meat, rice, and fermented milk products are recommended.

The patient should eat small portions up to 6 times a day.

Treatment of the disease using traditional methods

Traditional treatment of gastritis can be supplemented with drugs traditional medicine. But before using them, you should consult your doctor.

You can use green apples, which are peeled, crushed and eaten. It is recommended to do this several hours before meals, so it is best to consume the healing gruel in the morning. During the first month, apples are taken every day, in the second - 3 times a week, in the third, one dose per 7 days will be enough.

Inflammation of the stomach is well relieved by oat decoction. To do this, bring 5 liters of sour milk to a boil. The curd is separated from the whey, in which the oats are then boiled for three hours. As soon as the broth has cooled, it is filtered and the oats are thrown away. Add 300 g of honey and 125 g of alcohol to the drink and put it in the refrigerator. It is recommended to consume it 3 times a day, 30 g 15 minutes before meals.

Thanks to freshly squeezed potato juice, the acidity of the stomach is significantly reduced, and cabbage juice eliminates pain and has a wound-healing effect.

In addition, inflammation of the mucous membrane is well treated medicinal plants and herbal mixtures, which are selected depending on the acidity of the stomach.

Prevention

You can prevent inflammation of the gastric mucosa if you take preventive measures:

• give up all bad habits;
• avoid psycho-emotional and stressful situations;
• adhere to proper nutrition;
• engage in sports and exercise regularly.

Such prevention remarkably saves not only from inflammation of the stomach, but also from many other diseases.

Conclusion

Thus, we found out what gastritis is, symptoms and treatment. Diet also helps cope with inflammatory process. To identify this disease at an early stage, it is necessary to undergo a medical examination 1-2 times a year, and also be sure to consult a gastroenterologist.

Gastritis is a collective concept that combines different causes and methods of development of inflammation of the gastric mucosa. As a result of such inflammation, a disorder occurs in the cells lining the stomach from the inside. metabolic processes, they change structurally and are no longer able to perform their functions.

Ultimately, the cells can degenerate into cells of other organs (for example, into cells of the small intestine), leading to the formation of erosions, ulcers, and various polyps - which may be a reason to consult an oncologist.

Gastritis of the stomach is widespread in the world: about 63% of the world's population suffers from this disease, and most of them do not even know about their disease. Only 10-15% of them consult a doctor, which is explained by the fact that chronic gastritis, unlike acute illness, often has mild symptoms and occasionally bothers a person.

Causes of gastritis of the stomach

At the present stage, gastritis is considered as a disease that can occur either under the influence of one main factor or due to their combination. Main reasons:

• the presence of a specific bacterium Helicobacter pylori in the gastric mucosa (85% of chronic gastritis);
• autoimmune mechanisms (the body considers stomach cells as foreign and produces specific proteins for them - immunoglobulins);
• disruption of food transit through the gastrointestinal tract;
• food allergies;
• excessive use of drugs that damage the gastric mucosa;
• disturbance of the rhythm of nutrition, poor quality food, abuse of excessively hot or cold food, gastronomic features of food unusual for humans;
• smoking;
• alcohol abuse;
• occupational hazards (heavy industry, etc.);
• internal factors (chronic foci of infection - sinusitis, carious teeth, etc.; metabolic disorders (overweight and obesity, gout); diseases of the endocrine system).

Despite the huge number of causes of gastritis, they are all divided into:

• primary (when inflammation of the gastric mucosa is considered exclusively as a disease of this organ)
• secondary (inflammation occurs due to the painful state of other organs and systems, against the background of severe intoxication of the body).

Acute gastritis

Among them are acute and chronic gastritis. Acute gastritis is caused by the action of a strong irritant, for example, when consuming contaminated food, chemicals, or as a complication of metabolic disorders in the body, as well as during serious illness. It most often has a pronounced clinical picture and vivid symptoms.

Chronic gastritis

Chronic gastritis is a characteristic inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which occurs due to a huge number of reasons and is characterized by a long and asymptomatic course. Doctors distinguish in this group autoimmune inflammation of the gastric mucosa, inflammation of the stomach under the influence of a special bacterium - Helicobacter pylori, as well as special forms gastritis, for example, with renal failure.

Diagnosis of gastritis

Along with the enormous successes in diagnosing this disease, understanding the causes of its development, and advances in the creation of drugs, the results of treatment of gastritis (especially chronic gastritis) leave much to be desired.

The course of the disease is wavy, the symptoms are often erased, the disease is often advanced, adherence to treatment of patients outside of exacerbation drops sharply, and adherence to diet and abandonment of addictions when the attack of gastritis ends becomes burdensome.

Treatment of gastritis

Only a doctor should treat gastritis. You should not self-medicate: under the guise of relief, you can miss the development of formidable complications (stomach ulcers, obstruction, etc.). Acceptable treatment of gastritis at home, but under the systematic supervision of a doctor.

All treatment of gastritis is based on strict adherence to the rules of therapeutic nutrition (diet), a healthy lifestyle (quitting smoking and alcohol). It is doubtful to cure gastritis solely with diet (especially caused by H. pylori), but long-term remission is possible.

The diet has several basic principles:

1. Meals should be nutritious, frequent, divided from 4 to 6 times a day. Dry food and overeating are excluded.
2. Food should be gentle and not irritate the gastric mucosa (fatty meat and fish, dough products, vegetables and fruits high in fiber (peas, beans, etc.), chocolate, coffee, carbonated drinks, marinades, pickles, sour fruit juices are excluded ).
3. The food should be dominated by vegetable fats and animal proteins, a reduced amount of carbohydrates (vegetable and milk soups, boiled low-fat fish and meat, scrambled eggs, noodles and crackers made from white flour, low-fat cottage cheese, vegetable purees, milk, weak tea, vinaigrette with vegetable oil).

Drug treatment of gastritis

In the process of such treatment, several main goals are achieved.

First, a decrease in the acidity of gastric juice, which medical practice is achieved by prescribing 3 groups of drugs:

1. Proton pump inhibitors (rabeprazole, omeprazole, etc.)
2. Histamine blockers (famotidine, etc.)
3. Antacids (Almagel, Hefal, etc.)

Second, normalization of motility in all parts of the gastrointestinal tract is achieved by taking prokinetics (Motilium, Cerucal).

Third, protect the cells of the gastric mucosa. For this purpose, mucus production enhancers (biogastron, etc.) and recovery stimulants (sea buckthorn oil, solcoseryl, etc.) are widely used. Modern medicine - synthetic analogues of prostaglandins (for example, misoprostol) - is effective, but too expensive.

Fourth, removal of H. pylori, if such a bacterium is present in the stomach.

For this purpose, treatment regimens are prescribed, consisting of 2 antibiotics, a proton pump inhibitor, and a bismuth drug.

Symptoms of gastritis

There are a large number of symptoms by which a person may suspect gastritis. Based on their combination, one can with a certain degree of confidence assume the acute or chronic nature of inflammation in the gastric mucosa.

Diagnosis of acute gastritis is not very difficult.

Firstly, a person can quite accurately indicate what causes a sharp deterioration in health (poor food, alcohol abuse, etc.).

Secondly, the symptoms of gastritis, which occurs in acute form, can be divided into two large groups:

1. signs characteristic of inflammation of the stomach itself
2. and signs of general intoxication (malaise) of the body.

The first group includes:

• sharp, cutting pain in the upper third of the abdomen or, conversely, unpleasant heaviness in the abdomen, alleviated after taking milk, a small amount of food or water, soda, taking antacids (Gefal, Almagel, etc.).
• Often, the first signs of acute gastritis begin with painful nausea, which can be replaced by repeated vomiting, which brings relief. It most often has an unpleasant sour-bile taste that remains in the mouth for a long time.
• often this is accompanied by heartburn- an unpleasant sensation of heat, strong warmth behind the sternum, which may intensify when lying on your side, but goes away somewhat while walking or standing.

Common symptoms that occur due to inflammation of the gastric mucosa are general weakness, lethargy, loss of mood and appetite, and a slight rise in body temperature.

Signs of gastritis

The signs of chronic gastritis are numerous, but, as a rule, they are erased and slightly expressed (in rare cases - chronic gastritis proceeds with a violent picture of the disease). Over the course of months, years or even decades, this disease may simply not bother you.

The most common symptoms with which “gastritis of the stomach” begins:

• an uncomfortable feeling of heaviness, pressure or fullness in the upper third of the abdomen, which is long-lasting and permanent;
• recurring heartburn;
• nausea ;
• unexpressed, aching without clear localization abdominal pain, which occurs after errors in eating (consumption of spicy, fatty, overcooked foods or alcohol; when eating quickly (hurriedly);
• belching air, eaten food (after which the pain decreases);
• decreased appetite;
• metallic taste in the mouth;
• bowel dysfunction;
• frequency of symptoms: autumn, spring - but with autoimmune gastritis, the symptoms are constantly expressed.

In cases where gastritis is complicated by the development of erosions or ulcers, characteristic cutting or sharp stabbing pains. In this case, you must immediately consult a doctor.

In advanced cases, when the gastric mucosa can no longer perform its functions (enzyme production, food digestion and partial absorption of nutrients), the general symptoms of “stomach gastritis” come to the fore: weakness, pallor, lack of satiety after eating, weight loss, fragility nails and hair (signs of insufficient digestion). At the same time, bleeding gums, bumps in the corners of the mouth may indicate vitamin deficiency, which develops with a long course of the disease. Often, chronic gastritis (especially atrophic) can cause the development of anemia.

It is worth noting that the above signs of gastritis are most clearly presented during an exacerbation, while during the period of remission (outside of an exacerbation) their expression is unclear and blurred.

Diet for gastritis

Therapeutic nutrition for diseases of the digestive system is of paramount importance. Treatment of gastritis solely with diet cannot cure the disease, but significantly alleviates the course of the disease and eliminates the symptoms. The main provisions of such nutrition are formulated as follows.

Firstly, nutrition for gastritis should be varied, complete in energy value and the composition of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Foods that are not typical for the region in which the patient lives are excluded from the diet. A minimum content of salt and spices (especially hot ones) is achieved in food. Dietary recipes include dishes prepared according to the principle of mechanical, chemical and thermal sparing (these are ground and mashed dishes, neither hot nor cold by the time of serving).

Secondly, nutrition for gastritis of the stomach must be carried out four to six times a day, regularly, at the same time. The evening meal should take place at least 2-3 hours before going to bed.

Thirdly, it is advisable to exclude eating on the go, overeating, and dry eating. The menu for gastritis should consist of 3, at least 2 dishes. Eating hot food at least 2 times a day. First - at least 1 time per day.

Fourthly, when planning your diet for the week, it is recommended to increase the proportion of vegetable fats in the menu by 15-20%, and animal proteins by 15%. It is believed that this combination of proteins and fats has pronounced restorative properties for the cells of the gastric mucosa. It is also worth sharply limiting, by about half, animal fats and carbohydrates.

Menu for gastritis

The diet for gastritis consists of avoiding cooking dishes that increase the secretion of gastric juice (mushroom, fish and meat soups and broths).

Vegetables and fruits with a high fiber content (legumes, turnips) are contraindicated for this disease.

In recipes, be careful to include a small amount of low-fat cottage cheese and non-acidic cheese.

You should be careful with fatty meats and fish.

Flour products, buns and pies are replaced with crackers.

Unripe fruits and berries with rough peels, various juices, strong tea and coffee, chocolate, carbonated water, canned food, pickles and spicy seasonings, smoked marinades are strictly contraindicated for gastritis.

What is possible?

Proper nutrition consists of the following:

1. vegetable soups, cereals, milk soups
2. Boiled meat and fish of low-fat varieties
3. steamed meat and fish
4. boiled porridge
5. durum wheat noodles
6. vegetable puree, mashed potatoes
7. non-sour cottage cheese
8. milk
9. dairy products such as yoghurts and fermented baked milk
10. alkaline mineral waters without gas
11. non-acidic juices with pulp from fruits and berries
12. weak tea

Dietary nutrition for gastritis with low acidity has some features. Firstly, instead of slimy vegetable soups, which are indicated for high acidity, it is recommended to drink a small amount of blackcurrant juice 1-2 times a day. Secondly, the diet for patients with gastritis in this case includes kefir and cottage cheese.

It is worth noting that during the non-exacerbation period, an important role is played not only by the quality of food preparation, but also by sufficient provision of the body with vitamins and minerals. At this stage, you can take multivitamins or baby food purees.

Gastritis in children

In children, the development of inflammation of the gastric mucosa occurs for the same reasons as in adults. There are acute and chronic, primary and secondary gastritis.

The most common age of development of the disease is 5-7 and 9-13 years. Before puberty, the incidence rate in boys and girls is approximately the same, after which girls suffer more often.

Acute gastritis most often develops against the background of overeating, eating poor-quality food, or poisoning with spoiled foods. Often, the cause of gastritis is food with a high content of food allergens (large amounts of spices, exotic varieties of fish and meat, fruits).

Separately, gastritis is distinguished, which develops while taking certain medications that adversely affect the gastric mucosa (antipyretics, some antibiotics).

Gastritis can also develop against the background of a poorly tolerated childhood infection ( measles , rubella , flu and etc.).

Symptoms of gastritis in children

You should know that in young children, the fundamental symptoms of gastritis may not be expressed, masking as nonspecific signs of general malaise and intoxication.

Most often, at this age, parents are concerned about the development of nausea and vomiting in their child. In this state, children most often do not behave as actively as usual. They are lethargic, refuse to eat, or stop playing. You may notice increased production of saliva or, conversely, young children complain of constant dry mouth and often ask for a drink.

Parents may be alarmed by the child's low body temperature and frequent vomit, rumbling in the stomach, diarrhea.

In case of poisoning or severe gastritis, the child’s temperature may rise sharply, the pulse may increase, and consciousness may become confused. In such cases, the abdomen is swollen, there are no peristaltic sounds, or, conversely, rumbling and transfusion in the abdomen are clearly audible. In such cases, it is necessary to immediately take the child to the doctor to exclude acute surgical disease(appendicitis, acute gastric ulcer and/or its complications).

Determining gastritis in older children does not cause great difficulties - the signs of gastritis are similar to those in adults.

Treatment of gastritis in children

Treatment of the disease in children has a number of features compared to adults.

The main task is to eliminate the cause of gastritis. They give smecta according to the age norm, Activated carbon.

During the first 2 days, strict bed rest is indicated. The stomach is washed with a weak solution of soda and mineral water until the water is clear. The child is given frequent warm drinks over the next 12 hours.

In case of severe pain, you can give the child antispasmodics (for example, no-spa), a small amount of antacids (Almagel).

The diet for gastritis in children is as follows. After 1-2 days of fasting, you can give kefir, low-fat broth, jelly, porridge cooked in water - this diet is followed for the first 3-4 days. On days 5-7, it is allowed to give the child low-fat cottage cheese, white bread croutons, and soft-boiled eggs.

If the leading role of microorganisms in the development of gastritis (poisoning) is established, the leading role is occupied by the prescription of antibiotics. If worms are detected, use appropriate medications (acaris, etc.).

The tactics for managing chronic gastritis in children are similar to those in adults (see “Chronic gastritis”).

Acute gastritis

Acute gastritis is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa that occurs against a background of short-term exposure to strong irritants (acids, alkalis, various infections, etc.).

Most often, this condition develops suddenly, against the background of complete health. In such cases, a person can remember up to hours the moment the first symptoms appeared. Often he can independently associate his condition with a specific cause (eating errors, drinking alcohol, taking acid or alkali, etc.).

Acute gastritis in most cases has a severe course and is poorly tolerated by people.

It is necessary to distinguish between acute gastritis and exacerbation of gastritis, which has already entered the chronic stage. The symptoms of the two conditions are similar, but the treatment tactics in such cases are somewhat different.

Reasons for the development of gastritis:

1. gastronomic excesses and errors in food (alcohol, excessively salty and peppery foods, smoked foods, marinades, etc.);
2. intentional or accidental use of aggressive substances (acids, alkalis, etc.);
3. overdose or long-term and systematic use of certain medications (steroid hormones, aspirin, etc.);
4. secondary gastritis developing against the background of other diseases, injuries ( myocardial infarction, kidney failure, burn disease, etc.);
5. intestinal infections (shigellosis, staphylococcal infection, etc.);
6. Helicobarcter gastritis;
7. psycho-emotional overload (stress ulcers and erosions).

Symptoms of acute gastritis

As a rule, the disease begins suddenly. There is heaviness in the stomach, nausea followed by vomiting, which brings relief. The second option for the onset of the disease may be a severe pain syndrome, starting with sharp, cutting pain in the upper and/or middle third of the abdomen. Joins vomit eaten food. The pain is excruciating, constant, weakens or temporarily disappears after taking a small amount of milk, antacids (Almagel, Hefal, etc.).

There is a sharp deterioration in general health: no appetite, mood disappears, weakness appears, lethargy, malaise.

Along with the pain, a slight fever appears. If gastritis is caused by intestinal microorganisms, the temperature may precede abdominal discomfort and reach significant numbers.

After a while it appears diarrhea, which may be accompanied by ongoing vomiting.

When consumed chemically active substances(acids, alkalis, etc.) symptoms of inflammation of the gastric mucosa are accompanied by signs of a burn of the esophagus (severe heartburn, increased salivation), oral mucosa (loss of taste, drooling).

Treatment of acute gastritis

You should firmly know that acute gastritis is a disease that requires the participation of a doctor. Self-medication and untimely contact with a doctor can cause death, because... under the mask of acute gastritis a large number of emergency surgical situations can be hidden: from appendicitis to perforation of a stomach ulcer in abdominal cavity! After providing first aid, contact a specialist.

Treatment of acute gastritis begins with removing the cause of the disease: gastric lavage with a sufficiently large amount of water or mineral water, taking adsorbents (polyphepam, activated carbon, etc.) are indicated.

If gastritis has developed due to the intake of aggressive liquids - acids, rinsing is carried out with a weak solution of boric acid or soda. If inflammation develops under the influence of alkalis, add citric acid to the solution. Then add a small amount of sea buckthorn oil or Vaseline to protect the mucous membrane from the irritant.

The patient is given plenty of warm, frequent drinks. In case of severe vomiting or diarrhea, a person needs to drink (even with force!) up to 8 liters of mineral water or special solutions containing electrolytes (Regidron, etc.).

The diet for acute gastritis consists of complete fasting for the first 1-2 days. Afterwards, with great caution, you can eat pureed rice or semolina porridges cooked in water. Weak tea is allowed.

After 3-4 days from the onset of the disease, add a small amount of low-fat (most often chicken) broth with white bread croutons, kefir, steamed omelet or soft-boiled eggs.

Starting from days 5-7, the diet is expanded, you can eat boiled meat, buckwheat porridge- “smear”, white bread (but more acceptable - crackers), low-fat cottage cheese.

By the end of the first week, you can eat everything, but with great caution. Salty, smoked, pepper and marinades should be avoided. Carbonated water, chocolate, milk, sour cream, mayonnaise are prohibited for the next 2-3 weeks. The diet after acute gastritis is not much different from that for chronic gastritis.

Chronic gastritis

This is a disease that is characterized by prolonged inflammation of the gastric mucosa with characteristic changes.

It should be noted that this diagnosis can only be made absolutely accurately using a microscope. When conducting a special study - fibrogastroduodenoscopy - an endoscopist takes several pieces of the gastric mucosa. When examining pieces of tissue under a microscope, this diagnosis is confirmed or refuted, the degree of atrophy, dysplasia, metaplasia of stomach cells is determined, and infection with a specific bacterium - Helicobacter pylori - is determined.

Chronic gastritis is widespread among the world's population. According to statistics, more than half of all people suffer from this disease.

Chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa for reasons of development is divided into four main types:

1. type “A” (gastritis of the body of the stomach) is based on autoimmune mechanisms, as a result of which antibodies are produced to the cells of the stomach.
2. type “B” (antral gastritis) - it is believed that it is caused by the specific bacterium H. pylori, discovered at the beginning of the 21st century.
3. type “C” develops under the influence of various chemicals, alcohol, and some medications.
4. the next type develops as a result of prolonged exposure to contents from duodenum(most often bile), which is thrown into the stomach as a result of insufficiency of the muscle sphincter.
5. Some researchers classify as a separate group inflammation of the gastric mucosa that occurs after operations on this organ - post-resection gastritis.

In cases where the duodenal mucosa is involved in inflammation, the disease is called “gastroduodenitis.”

Another classification identifies two main types of gastritis, depending on which the doctor uses different treatment tactics.

This is chronic gastritis with and without the development of atrophy.

Atrophy is a condition in which the cells of the stomach change, lose the structure characteristic of this organ and cannot fully realize their functions (secretion of mucus, enzymes, hydrochloric acid). Such cells are no longer capable of absorbing useful substances (proteins, vitamins, small amounts of carbohydrates and fats broken down into amino acids).

Chronic gastritis is also distinguished with increased or decreased acidity of gastric juice (see “Gastritis with low acidity”, “Gastritis with high acidity”).

Symptoms of chronic gastritis.

The disease can have a clear picture only at the beginning of its development. In most cases, chronic gastritis develops gradually, unnoticed by a person. The signs of such gastritis are most often blurred and not clearly expressed - and the person long time may not even be aware of the presence of the disease.

Depending on the type of gastritis and the pH level of gastric juice, all symptoms can be divided into two large groups:

1. signs more characteristic of chronic gastritis with low acidity and atrophic gastritis (unexpressed dull, It's a dull pain in the upper third of the abdomen; feeling of discomfort, heaviness, bloating in the stomach after eating; increased gas production, rumbling in the stomach and periodic loose stools or constipation, bad breath).

2. signs more characteristic of chronic gastritis with increased acidity of gastric juice, erosive or superficial gastritis (severe “hungry” abdominal pain on an empty stomach or at night; sour belching; heartburn; pain in the upper third of the abdomen after a diet violation).

Treatment of chronic gastritis

The treatment tactics for this disease are complex: simultaneous prescription of medications and nutritional therapy (diet).

All medications used in treatment can be divided into four large groups:

1. drugs that reduce gastric acidity
2. drugs that normalize digestive processes in the gastrointestinal tract
3. stimulators of gastric cell regeneration
4. antibacterial drugs to eradicate (remove) H. pylori infection

More detailed treatment is discussed in the section “Treatment of gastritis”.

Nutrition for chronic gastritis is based on the principles of protecting (sparing) the gastric mucosa. This is achieved by steaming dishes, pureed soups and cereals, limited use fresh juices and fruits high in fiber. A diet for chronic gastritis requires frequent divided meals, preferably at the same time, a balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Products must contain sufficient amounts of minerals and vitamins (see “Diet for gastritis”).

Atrophic gastritis

The most common form of chronic gastritis. Found in approximately 70-75% of all sufferers chronic inflammation gastric mucosa. Most often, elderly people or those who have been ill for a long time suffer.

Atrophy is a condition in which the cells of the stomach change, lose the structure characteristic of this organ and can no longer fully realize their functions (secretion of mucus, enzymes, hydrochloric acid). Such cells are not capable of absorbing useful substances (proteins, vitamins, small amounts of carbohydrates and fats broken down into amino acids).

Diagnosis of chronic gastritis with atrophic changes be diagnosed according to a typical clinical picture, very similar to that of gastritis with low acidity of gastric juice, and is confirmed by microscopic examination of pieces of mucous membrane taken during fibrogastroduodenoscopy.

Symptoms of atrophic gastritis

As already mentioned, this form of gastritis can be suspected by typical symptoms, also characteristic of gastritis with low acidity. In addition, low acidity is a constant companion to such inflammation of the gastric mucosa.

Most often, atrophic gastritis of the stomach can be suspected by symptoms of impaired digestion, passage of food through the gastrointestinal tract, and metabolic disorders.

It is characterized by a feeling of heaviness in the stomach after eating, discomfort in the upper third of the abdomen that is constant or worsens after errors in the diet, etc. (for more details, see “”).

Such people experience chronic anemia (decreased hemoglobin levels in the blood), poor skin and hair condition (dull, brittle hair, oily or dry skin, flaking). We are concerned about weakness and malaise, which can haunt a person for many months and years and cause him to turn to a huge number of specialists. This is often accompanied by weight loss while maintaining a normal diet.

Against the background of developing hypovitaminosis, pustular skin lesions and seizures in the corners of the lips appear. Immunity decreases, leading to frequent viral diseases.

Treatment of atrophic gastritis

The treatment tactics for such gastritis are the same as for gastritis with low acidity (see “Gastritis with low acidity”).

Appointed enzyme preparations, to restore digestion. In advanced cases, the use of gastric juice is indicated.

Drugs that stimulate the restoration of stomach cells (solcoseryl, sea buckthorn oil, etc.) are actively prescribed.

Diet has great value for patients with atrophic gastritis. Its basic principles do not differ from nutritional therapy for other types of gastritis. The only exception is the consumption of slimy soups and cereals, which are replaced with fresh juice and low-fat broth.

Treatment of atrophic gastritis with folk remedies has no independent significance and is used only in complex therapy. Propolis tinctures, honey, chamomile and sage decoctions are used (for more details, see “Treatment of Gastritis”).

It should be remembered that atrophic gastritis can become the basis for the development of precancerous conditions - and, thus, requires systematic medical supervision.

Gastritis with high acidity

This is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which is accompanied by an increase in the acidity of gastric juice.

This type of gastritis most often occurs in young people and has several causes for its development. Based on them, four forms of gastritis with high acidity are distinguished.

The development of gastritis type “A” (“fundal gastritis”) is based on autoimmune mechanisms, as a result of which antibodies are produced to the cells of the stomach.

Gastritis type "B" (antral gastritis) - is believed to be caused by a specific bacterium, H. pylori.

Type “C” gastritis develops under the influence of various chemicals, alcohol, and some medications. And reflux gastritis, which develops due to the reflux of the contents of the small intestine back into the stomach.

Symptoms and signs of gastritis with high acidity

It is believed that gastritis with high acidity is characterized by a wave-like course with periods of exacerbations (most often in autumn and spring) and remissions.

At the beginning, the pain is constant, aching, moderate, sometimes manifested in the form of pressure, heaviness in the pit of the stomach. Most often they are provoked by errors in food (overcooked, fatty and smoked foods).

Rare, but characteristic feature is “late” hunger pain, occurring 6-7 hours after eating. The pain is so severe that it is similar to that of a stomach ulcer.

Often, problems with stool (constipation) appear.

Signs of gastritis with high acidity outside of exacerbation are most often not expressed. May be a minor concern heartburn , belching air or recently eaten food.

Treatment of gastritis with high acidity.

When treating gastritis of this type, several goals are simultaneously pursued.

Firstly, reduction of total acidity (this is achieved by prescribing special drugs from the group of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) - omeprazole, rabeprazole, etc., histamine receptor blockers - famotidine, etc.; the use of antacids (Almagel, etc.).

Secondly, To normalize digestive processes, enzymatic preparations (festal, mezim, etc.) are prescribed.

Third, if gastritis is caused by H. pylori, then antibiotic therapy comes first. Currently, there are 2 main treatment regimens: 3-component or 4-component. The joint prescription of 2 antibiotics and an acid-reducing drug (PPI) is three mandatory components. Additional administration of bismuth preparations is typical for a 4-component regimen.

It must be remembered that the basis of any treatment for gastritis is diet and avoidance of alcohol and smoking. The food excludes dishes that stimulate secretion in the stomach (marinades, smoked meats, pickles, hot seasonings). Meals are frequent, split meals (from 4 to 6 times a day), preferably at the same time, gentle, steamed or with a minimum amount of fat and oil. Various vegetable or fish side dishes, lean meats (chicken, veal) are welcome; a special place is occupied by the consumption of soups, which should be included in the diet at least 2 times a day. The use of enveloping substances (flax seed decoction, white clay, antacids) is also recommended both during an exacerbation and outside of it.

During an exacerbation, treatment consists of complete cessation of smoking, alcohol, and fasting for 1-2 days. Antacids (Almagel, Hefal, etc.) and proton pump inhibitors are taken. It must be remembered that the symptoms of gastritis with high acidity during an exacerbation are similar to the signs of an acute ulcer of the stomach or small intestine. You must immediately stop self-medication and consult a doctor.

Gastritis with low acidity

This is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which is accompanied by a decrease in the acidity of gastric juice.

Such gastritis occurs in 20-25% of newly diagnosed cases of chronic gastritis, and reaches values ​​of up to 60% in advanced forms of this disease. This is explained by the fact that during the transition of acute gastritis to chronic gastritis, in most cases, high acidity levels of the stomach contents are observed, but over time, the acidity values ​​decrease.

Chronic gastritis with low acidity is typical for older people who have been suffering from inflammation of the gastric mucosa for a long time.

The reasons for the development of the disease are the same as for chronic gastritis with high acidity (there are 4 types: “A”; “B”; developing under the influence of various chemicals; reflux gastritis).

Symptoms of gastritis with low acidity

The release of hydrochloric acid by stomach cells is a necessary condition for the activation of a large number of enzymes of the digestive system. For example, pepsin, the main enzyme of gastric juice, which breaks down proteins in the lumen of the stomach, passes from an inactive form (pepsinogen) to an active one (pepsin itself) only at low pH. In addition, the acidic contents of the stomach are a direct regulator of the movement of the bolus of food into the lower gastrointestinal tract.

Thus, for gastritis with low acidity, symptoms associated with the quality of food digestion come to the fore, and very rarely, severe pain.

Patients suffering from this type of gastritis complain of a feeling of heaviness, fullness, and distension in the upper and middle third of the abdomen, especially after eating.

Treatment of gastritis with reduced activity.

The treatment achieves several goals.

• Firstly, restoring the activity of enzymes in the digestive system.
• Secondly, achieving proper regular functioning of all parts of the digestive tract.
• Thirdly, normalization of digestion.
• Fourthly, if H. pylori is detected, antibiotics are prescribed.

Due to the symptoms not being as pronounced as with gastritis with high acidity, the main place is not drug treatment, but adherence to therapeutic nutrition (diet) and a healthy lifestyle (quitting smoking, drinking alcohol).

The diet corresponds to that for gastritis with high acidity, with minor exceptions: slimy vegetable soups and porridges are removed from the menu and a small amount of fermented milk products (kefir, non-acidic cheese), fresh berry juice with pulp are added (see “Diet for gastritis”) .

Enzymes (Pancreatin, Creon, Mezim, etc.) are prescribed to compensate for their insufficient activity, especially when the acidity of gastric juice is extremely low.

To regulate the functioning of the entire gastrointestinal tract, drugs that regulate digestion are prescribed - metoclopramide and domperidone (Motilium, Cerucal, etc.).

Antral gastritis

IN modern classifications This type of gastritis is called “type B gastritis.” This gastritis is diagnosed based on the results of a biopsy and examination of stomach tissue under a microscope. The basis for its occurrence is considered to be the specific bacterium Helicobacter pylori.

Gastritis got its name because it is characterized by inflammatory changes in the part of the stomach called the “antrum”. Let us recall that the stomach is conventionally divided into 3 areas: cardia (the most top part), body (middle part) and antrum (lower area at the junction of the stomach and duodenum). It is in the antrum that the contents of the stomach are gradually alkalized and prepared for passage into the intestine.

Antral gastritis is especially studied because in 100% of cases of acute or chronic ulcers of the duodenum or stomach it is detected by microscopic examination. It is believed that antral gastritis is a direct factor in the formation of ulcers.

Three quarters of all antral gastritis occurs with increased acidity of gastric juice, the rest with normal acidity. A peculiarity of the symptoms of such inflammation of the gastric mucosa is that even at low pH values, a person most often does not feel the disease. He may only periodically be bothered by minor pain in the upper third of the abdomen and slight belching.

Treatment of antral gastritis

Treatment of gastritis with a predominant lesion of the antrum is carried out according to the general scheme (drugs that increase the pH of gastric juice, prokinetics, stimulators of gastric cell restoration, regulators of digestive activity and enzymes) (in more detail - “Treatment of gastritis”).

A special feature is that the treatment regimen includes aggressive antibacterial therapy aimed at removing Helicobacter pylori from the gastric mucosa. A 3-component combination of drugs (a proton pump inhibitor and two antibiotics) or a 4-component combination of drugs is prescribed (in this case, bismuth drugs are added). The course of therapy lasts from 10 to 14 days. Control fibrogastroduodenoscopy is performed 2, 4 and 8 weeks after treatment. Even after positive result from the therapy performed, it is necessary to be systematically observed by the attending physician for early detection relapse of the disease.

It is worth noting that the wording “superficial antral gastritis” implies inflammation of the gastric mucosa with a predominant localization in the antrum, which, according to the development mechanisms and characteristic microscopic picture, is the same as type B gastritis.

Erosive gastritis

Erosive gastritis is one of the most common types of gastritis, which is characterized by superficial damage to the gastric mucosa in the form of characteristic defects - erosions.

Erosion of the stomach or duodenum is currently the most common and at the same time the least studied lesions of the gastrointestinal tract. The mechanism of development of erosions, which are small (up to 3-4 mm) foci of necrosis of the mucous membrane in depth to a certain level (up to the so-called muscular lamina propria) and heal without scar formation, unlike ulcers, has not been fully elucidated.

Currently, depending on the structure, quantity and homogeneity, acute (the defect heals within 4-9 days) and chronic (healing over several months or years) erosions are distinguished.

According to the reasons for the development of gastric erosion, they are divided into:

1. Primary, developing without concomitant diseases;
2. secondary, which arise as a systemic lesion during severe injuries, burn disease, and stress.

Causes of gastric erosion

Currently, erosive gastritis of the stomach does not have a unified theory of occurrence. There are risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing erosive gastritis:

• Firstly, Helicobacter pylori infection. There is no direct evidence that this bacterium causes erosion. However, its eradication (removal) from the gastric mucosa sharply shortens the treatment time and increases the recovery rate of patients suffering from erosive gastritis.
• Secondly, the developing reflux of bile and bile acids with insufficiency of the sphincter between the stomach and duodenum, disruption of the movement of the food bolus into the underlying sections of the gastrointestinal tract, in approximately a third of cases, become the causes of erosion.
• Thirdly, a state of constant stress and nervous tension, which lead to an increase in the level of adrenaline, cortisol, thyroxine, are the direct causes of the development of erosive gastritis against the background of complete well-being.
• Fourthly, long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, paracetamol, diclofenac, etc.) can cause erosive damage to the gastric mucosa.

Symptoms of erosive gastritis

There are no specific symptoms for erosive gastritis. Acute erosion can be suspected by sudden onset of heartburn, sour belching, and abdominal pain on an empty stomach. However, in 90% of cases, acute erosions go unnoticed.

Chronic erosions disturb a person with more pronounced pain in the upper third of the abdomen and digestive disorders. Belching, heartburn, heaviness in the abdomen and increased gas formation over the course of several months become signs by which erosion can be suspected. You may also experience dull or cramping pain in the upper third of the abdomen on an empty stomach, which can radiate to the spine. Unstable stool appears with a predominance of constipation.

At the first suspicion of the development of acute or exacerbation of chronic gastritis, you should immediately consult a doctor to exclude the development of erosive gastritis.

Treatment of erosive gastritis

Choosing tactics for treating erosions of the stomach or duodenum is not an easy task. Since the mechanisms of erosive gastritis are not yet fully understood, treatment is aimed at all possible links in the development of the disease. A doctor treats erosive gastritis. Avoid self-medication.

The primary task is to remove Helicobacter pylori from the gastric mucosa, for which three- and four-component regimens are used (see “Treatment of gastritis”).

Erosive gastritis: treatment with folk remedies

Treatment using traditional medicine recipes has no independent meaning. It is effective only in complex therapy with medications (see “Treatment of gastritis”).

Superficial gastritis

This form of gastritis was established solely thanks to the introduction of a special diagnostic method - fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy (FEGDS). This diagnosis is made solely by microscopic examination of pieces of the gastric mucosa under a microscope. Characteristic changes, which are detected in this case, predominate in inactive gastritis or gastritis in the stage of long-term remission.

Its isolation became necessary due to the fact that this form of inflammation of the gastric mucosa is the first sign of the disease transitioning to the chronic stage and the eligibility for the diagnosis of “chronic gastritis”.

It is believed that with this type of inflammation of the gastric mucosa there are no significant disturbances in the structure of the cells, their functions are mostly preserved. However, increased secretion of mucus is already observed, and the production of hydrochloric acid and pepsinogen, the main enzyme of gastric juice, is slightly reduced. These changes are not yet pronounced and total in nature, as with atrophic gastritis, but may progress in the future.

Symptoms of superficial gastritis

For this type of gastritis, typical symptoms (pain, discomfort in the upper third of the abdomen after eating or on an empty stomach, disruption of digestion and metabolism) are not typical. Superficial gastritis in the vast majority of cases is asymptomatic or only with minor manifestations. Most often, superficial gastritis becomes a finding during routine systematic examinations that are carried out in risk groups. They are workers in hazardous industries (heavy industry, chemical production, people with a family history of autoimmune diseases and etc.)

Treatment of superficial gastritis

If this type of gastritis is detected, no specific treatment is required. General strengthening therapy is prescribed, planned treatment of chronic foci of infection (carious teeth, chronic sinusitis, pustular skin lesions, etc.) is carried out, and the intake of multivitamin complexes and minerals is recommended. It is necessary to give up bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol), moderate gastronomic excesses (overeating, excess spices, salt, smoked meats, marinades, carbonated water) in the daily menu. In general, the diet for superficial gastritis is looser than for other types of inflammation of the gastric mucosa (for more detail, see “Treatment of Gastritis”).

Drug treatment consists of a course of medications that stimulate the restoration of stomach cells and the treatment of concomitant diseases.

It should be remembered that at this stage of the development of the disease, the process of changes in the gastric mucosa is manageable - disciplined implementation of the doctor’s recommendations can protect against the transition of this type of gastritis to subsequent forms with the ensuing consequences.

There are several types of gastritis:

Chronic;
- spicy;
- alcoholic.

Causes of gastritis

1. It’s no secret that negative emotions negatively affect the health of our body. So gastritis can also be a consequence of prolonged depression.
2. Often, long-term use of various medications can provoke the occurrence of gastritis. Special attention pay attention to tablets that can irritate the gastric mucosa.
3. Smoking and abuse also causes this disease.
4. Wrong mode nutrition is the main reason.

It is worth noting that even too hot or cold food can harm the mucous membrane.

Disease prevention

1. Avoid stressful situations whenever possible.
2. Regularly monitor the condition of your teeth. And also treat all sources of infections in the body in a timely manner.
3. Do not eat fruits immediately after your main meal.

Fruits and vegetables are digested faster than meat or baked goods. As a result, the fermentation process will begin in the stomach.

4. Don't eat at night. Always watch your portion size.
5. Carefully monitor the balance of your daily diet. Eliminate a variety of snacks from your menu.
6. Chew your food thoroughly.
7. Don't drink water after eating. The stomach must digest all the food on its own.

If you do find yourself with gastritis, immediately consult your doctor. After examining your health condition, he will prescribe the necessary medications. In the treatment of gastritis traditional methods It is worth considering that this disease also varies. It can occur with both low and high acidity.

Treatment for high acidity

1. Fresh carrot juice helps relieve attacks of gastritis. It should be taken an hour before breakfast.
2. Honey will also effectively help with gastritis. To do this, mix 2 tablespoons in 1 glass of warm water. Take 100 ml 2-3 times a day.

Treatment for low acidity

1. For gastritis with low acidity, it is recommended to take the juice of young white cabbage. 30-40 minutes before meals, 100 ml 2-3 times a day.
2. To relieve discomfort, you can brew viburnum at the rate of 1 tablespoon per 1 glass of water. After this it should be boiled. Take 2 tablespoons 3-5 times a day.