Gastritis (gas-TRY-tis) is inflammation of the stomach.
Most of the time it goes away in a few days if you avoid things
that upset your stomach.
Causes
Common causes of gastritis are
drinking alcohol, smoking, overeating, and eating spicy foods.
The condition may also be caused by pain medicines, such as
aspirin and ibuprofen. Sometimes an infection is to
blame.
Signs/Symptoms
Common symptoms include loss of
appetite, an upset stomach, or stomach cramping. Gastritis can
also cause vomiting, diarrhea, burping, a bad taste in your
mouth, weakness, fever, stomach bloating, and chest
pain.
Care
Treatment consists of antacids
and rest.
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.
Email this page
Printer friendly
Bookmark this page
