Gastritis

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Causes

Signs/Symptoms

Care

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• You may take over-the-counter antacids to keep stomach acid in check.
• Ask your doctor before taking any other medications. Don't take aspirin or ibuprofen. They will make your gastritis worse. If you need a painkiller, use acetaminophen.
• Don't eat solid foods on the first day of the attack. Drink plenty of liquids such as milk or water--about 8 glasses a day.
• Resume a normal diet slowly. Eat bland foods or those that you know agree with you. Eat only a little at a time.
• Start normal activities when you feel better.
• To avoid another attack:
  • Eat and drink moderately. Avoid hot and spicy foods or those that you find hard to digest. Don't skip meals.
  • If you smoke or use alcohol, quit or cut down as much as possible.

Call Your Doctor If...

• You have pain or vomiting that lasts for more than a few hours.

Seek Care Immediately If...

• You vomit blood.
• You have blood in your stool or black bowel movements.
• You become weak and dizzy.
• You have severe pain.
• You develop a high temperature.