Gastritis is a condition that occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed or irritated. The inflammation may be caused by an infection with the bacterium H. pylori, or it may occur as a result of overusing certain pain relievers, drinking too much alcohol, or having an autoimmune disease.
Gastritis can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually over time (chronic gastritis). Symptoms of gastritis include nausea, vomiting, abdomen pain, indigestion, and bloating.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of gastritis, it is important that you see a gastritis specialist. Singapore is home to some of the best gastritis specialists in the world.
These specialists will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs. To diagnose gastritis, your doctor will likely take a medical history and perform a physical examination. They may also order one or more tests, such as an endoscopy or blood test.
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How do Doctors Fix Gastritis?
Once gastritis is diagnosed, treatment will focus on relieving symptoms and healing the lining of the stomach. In some cases, this can be done with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.
However, if yours is more of a severe case, there may be need for prescription medication or surgery. Here is a quick roundup of some of the most common treatments your gastritis specialist may recommend:
- Antacids
Antacids are medicines that neutralize stomach acid to relieve indigestion and heartburn. They also help to protect the lining of the stomach from gastric acid.
They are usually taken as a liquid or chewable tablet and should be taken with food or soon after eating. This is because they work best when there is food in your stomach to absorb the medicine.
The active ingredients in antacids include aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and calcium carbonate. These work by binding with stomach acid to neutralize it.
Antacids are available over the counter from pharmacies and supermarkets and you may not need a prescription from a gastritis specialist but it is important to follow the instructions on the packet. You should not take antacids for more than two weeks without speaking to a doctor, as they can cause side effects, such as diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
- H2 blockers
H2 blockers, also known as histamine-2 receptor antagonists, are a type of medication that can be used to treat gastritis. H2 blockers work by reducing the amount of acid that is produced by the stomach.
This can help to relieve you of gastritis related symptoms like nausea, heartburn, and indigestion. H2 blockers are also available over the counter or by prescription. They are typically taken for a short period of time (1-2 weeks) to provide relief from symptoms.
When taken as directed, H2 blockers are safe and effective for most people. However, side effects can include headaches, dizziness, and diarrhea. If you experience any troubling side effects, be sure to speak with your doctor.
- Proton pump inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) work by reducing the amount of acid that is produced by the stomach. This can help to relieve symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion.
PPIs are available over the counter or on prescription from a gastritis specialist. When taking PPIs, it is important to follow the instructions on the packaging or as advised by a healthcare professional.
Side effects of PPIs are generally rare and tend to be mild but can include headaches, diarrhea, and constipation. In most cases, these side effects will resolve within a few days or weeks. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should speak to your gastritis specialist.
- Antibiotics
If your gastritis is caused by an infection, you will likely be prescribed a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that is causing the infection.
If you’ve been directed to use antibiotics, it is important that you take them as prescribed by your gastritis specialist. This is because stopping the course early can allow the infection to return and make gastritis worse. Some of the common side effects you may experience when taking antibiotics include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
- Surgery
In some cases, gastritis may be so severe that surgery is required. The most common type of surgery for gastritis is partial or total gastrectomy.
During a gastrectomy, the stomach is removed in part or whole. This can help to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with severe gastritis.
Side effects of surgery can include pain, bleeding, and infection. These side effects are usually temporary and will resolve within a few weeks or months.
In some cases, more serious complications can occur, such as leakage from the stomach or intestinal blockages. If you are considering surgery for your gastritis, be sure to speak with your gastritis specialist about all of the risks and benefits.
- Diet and lifestyle changes
Making some simple diet and lifestyle changes can also help to manage gastritis. For example, avoiding trigger foods, such as spicy or acidic foods, can help to prevent symptoms.
In addition, quitting smoking and reducing stress can also help to reduce the risk of gastritis. If you are struggling to make these changes on your own, speaking with a dietitian or counselor may be helpful.
- Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed. Probiotics are found in many foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
They can also be taken in supplement form. Probiotics 20 billion work by restoring the balance of good bacteria in the gut. This can help to improve digestion and reduce the risk of gastritis.
Probiotics are generally safe and well tolerated. However, side effects can include gas, bloating, and diarrhea. If you experience any severe side effects, you should speak to your doctor.
When choosing a probiotic supplement, it is important to select one that is high quality and backed by research.
When Should I see a Gastritis Specialist?
In most cases, gastritis is a mild condition that can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications. However, if you experience severe or persistent symptoms, you should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Here are some symptoms that may indicate that it’s time to see a gastritis specialist:
- If you experience severe pain in the abdomen
- If you vomit blood or have bloody stools
- If you experience difficulty swallowing
- If you lose weight without trying
- If you have persistent nausea or vomiting
- If your symptoms do not improve with home treatment
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Gastritis can be a serious condition, and prompt treatment is essential for preventing complications.
Closing Thoughts
There are multiple approaches your gastritis specialist might take to treat your gastritis. The approach will be based on the severity of the condition as well as any underlying causes.
Be sure to find a qualified gastritis specialist who can develop a treatment plan that is right for you. With the proper treatment, most people with gastritis can effectively manage their symptoms and enjoy a good quality of life.
At the Alpha Digestive & Liver Center, our team of gastroenterologists is highly experienced in treating gastritis. We offer a range of services, including endoscopy, colonoscopy, and nutrition counseling.
If you are looking for a gastritis specialist in Singapore, we invite you to contact us today to schedule an appointment. Call: (65) 6235 9658 or visit us at;
Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre | Dr Benjamin Yip
3 Mt Elizabeth #15-09
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
+65 8876 9034