Gastritis

Gastritis is the term used to describe inflammation of the stomach lining. It is a common condition with various causes, patterns of progression and degrees of severity.

Diagnosis is usually made by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which allows direct visualisation of the gastric mucosa and, when necessary, biopsy sampling for histological analysis.

Acute gastritis develops suddenly, often associated with exposure of the gastric mucosa to irritants such as certain medications, alcohol or infections.

Chronic gastritis is more common and develops gradually over time, often without symptoms. In some cases, persistent inflammation may lead to mucosal atrophy, increase the risk of gastric ulceration and be associated with a higher risk of gastric cancer, requiring medical surveillance.

Common causes of gastritis include:

• Infection with Helicobacter pylori;
• Prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
• Excessive alcohol consumption;
• Autoimmune diseases;
• Bile reflux;
• Smoking;
• Severe physical stress (surgery, trauma or severe infection).

Gastritis may be asymptomatic. When symptoms occur, they commonly include pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, burning or gnawing gastric pain, nausea, vomiting and abdominal bloating. The presence of blood in vomit or stools is a warning sign and requires urgent medical assessment.

Treatment should always be guided by a gastroenterologist and is based on identifying and correcting the underlying cause. It may include medications to reduce gastric acidity and, when indicated, antibiotics to eradicate Helicobacter pylori infection.

Self-medication should be avoided, as it may mask symptoms and delay the diagnosis of complications.

A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle habits play an important role in prevention and management. Recommendations include:

• Light, frequent meals;
• Avoidance of fatty, spicy or acidic foods;
• Avoidance of alcohol;
• Reduced caffeine intake;
• Avoidance of NSAIDs without medical prescription.