Gastritis Explained: Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining that affects approximately 20% of adults worldwide. This condition ranges from mild irritation to severe erosion of the gastric mucosa, potentially leading to ulcers or stomach cancer if untreated.
At Travel For Med, we connect patients with top gastroenterologists at JCI-accredited hospitals who specialize in advanced gastritis diagnosis and treatment.
Types and Causes of Gastritis
1. Acute Gastritis
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Primary Causes:
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NSAID overuse (aspirin, ibuprofen)
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Alcohol binge drinking
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Food poisoning (bacterial toxins)
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Severe stress (ICU patients)
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2. Chronic Gastritis
| Type | Cause | Prevalence |
|---|---|---|
| H. pylori | Bacterial infection | 50-60% cases |
| Autoimmune | Antibodies attack stomach cells | 5-10% |
| Chemical | Bile reflux, medications | 15-20% |
| Eosinophilic | Allergic response | Rare |
3. Special Forms
✔ Atrophic gastritis (pre-cancerous)
✔ Hemorrhagic gastritis (alcohol/NSAID-induced)
✔ Lymphocytic gastritis (celiac-associated)
Gastritis Symptoms: What to Watch For
Common Presentations
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Upper abdominal burning (worse when hungry)
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Nausea/vomiting (sometimes with blood)
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Early satiety and bloating
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Loss of appetite
Alarm Symptoms Requiring Urgent Care
❗ Black/tarry stools (melena)
❗ Vomiting blood (hematemesis)
❗ Unintentional weight loss (>5% in 3 months)
❗ Persistent pain unrelieved by antacids
Diagnostic Approach
Essential Tests
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H. pylori Detection:
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Stool antigen test (90% accuracy)
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Urea breath test (gold standard)
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Endoscopic biopsy
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Imaging:
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Upper endoscopy with biopsy
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Capsule endoscopy for hard-to-reach areas
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Lab Work:
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Complete blood count (checking for anemia)
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Gastrin levels (autoimmune gastritis)
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Vitamin B12 (atrophic gastritis marker)
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Effective Treatment Strategies
Medical Treatments
| Medication Class | Examples | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| PPIs | Omeprazole, Pantoprazole | Acid suppression |
| H2 Blockers | Famotidine | Mild cases |
| Antibiotics | Amoxicillin, Clarithromycin | H. pylori eradication |
| Cytoprotectants | Sucralfate | Ulcer prevention |
Natural Remedies (Evidence-Based)
✔ Manuka honey (antibacterial effects)
✔ Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)
✔ Probiotics (Lactobacillus strains)
✔ Aloe vera juice (soothing properties)
Dietary Management
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Foods to Avoid:
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Spicy dishes
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Citrus fruits
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Carbonated drinks
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Fried/fatty foods
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Recommended Foods:
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Oatmeal
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Lean proteins
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Cooked vegetables
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Ginger tea
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Complications of Untreated Gastritis
Potential Consequences
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Peptic ulcers (10-20% of chronic cases)
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Gastric bleeding (5-15% with NSAID use)
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Vitamin B12 deficiency (autoimmune type)
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Gastric cancer risk (3-5x increase with atrophy)
Why Choose Travel For Med for Gastritis Care?
We provide access to:
✔ Advanced endoscopy centers
✔ H. pylori resistance testing
✔ Nutritionist consultations
✔ Second opinion services
Cost Comparison:
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USA: $2,500-$5,000 (with endoscopy)
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UK: £1,800-£3,500
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Turkey: $800-$1,500 (same technology)
Take Control of Your Gastritis
We offer:
✔ Free medical record review
✔ Specialist matching service
✔ Travel/accommodation packages
✔ Follow-up care coordination
Find your gastritis solution:
Contact Travel For Med Today
