Gastric Mucosal Erosion: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Q: Gastric Mucosal Erosion: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Hello： 1. <br>It is still recommended to avoid coffee if you continue to experience excessive stomach acid. <br>2. <br>It is not necessarily required to take medication for gastritis to improve; as long as excessive stomach acid is not produced, it may resolve on its own. <br>3.

Gastric ulcer condition?

Hello, Doctor.
Recently, I experienced discomfort in my body a few days after accidentally consuming a black sesame product, but I do not have stomach pain.
I have a burning sensation in my chest area.
I would like to explain my current condition to you.
Before I was diagnosed with gastritis, I rarely had late-night snacks and seldom drank sugary beverages, although I do consume coffee (in small amounts).
I do not smoke or drink alcohol, and I have hardly eaten fried foods (I used to eat fried food during my student years, but I stopped after entering the workforce).

Later, I learned that I have gastritis, which was quite frustrating.
Initially, I did not think it would be gastroesophageal reflux disease; I first suspected throat inflammation because I felt a foreign body sensation in my throat and had the urge to vomit.
I went to see an ENT specialist, who prescribed medication and performed an endoscopy.
The doctor informed me that there was no inflammation or abnormalities in my throat, but I was still given medication.
However, I did not notice much improvement.
I then visited a gastroenterologist.
During my first visit, I did not request the doctor to schedule an endoscopy; I only reported my symptoms, and the doctor prescribed medication.
After taking the medication for a few days, my symptoms remained the same, with little improvement.
I still felt a foreign body sensation and even had the urge to vomit (but did not actually vomit).
Eventually, I decided to undergo an endoscopy.
After the procedure, the doctor informed me that there were no burns or inflammation in my esophagus, but there was a slight abrasion and mild inflammation in my stomach, which did not reach the level of an ulcer.
I was then prescribed acid-reducing medication and anti-nausea medication.
This is the summary of my medical visits, but I would like to ask you, given my situation, is it necessary to take acid-reducing medication for the symptoms of gastritis and the abrasion to improve? I am currently very attentive to my dietary habits, avoiding everything I should not eat, and I do not consume food or water four hours before bedtime.
I am working on improving my lifestyle and diet.
Is it possible for me to heal without medication? Also, may I ask if it is okay to eat apples? I mainly drink warm water, go to bed early, wake up early, and find time to exercise (today is the second day after my endoscopy and after picking up my medication).

Xiao Guang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/15

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
It is still recommended to avoid coffee if you continue to experience excessive stomach acid.
2.
It is not necessarily required to take medication for gastritis to improve; as long as excessive stomach acid is not produced, it may resolve on its own.
3.
You can eat apples as long as they do not cause you discomfort.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/04/15

More Info

Understanding gastric mucosal erosion and its treatment options is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing further complications. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing discomfort related to your gastrointestinal health, particularly after consuming certain foods. You mentioned having a burning sensation in your chest, which could be indicative of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other gastric issues.

Gastric mucosal erosion refers to the superficial loss of gastric mucosa, which can occur due to various factors, including excessive acid production, certain medications (like NSAIDs), or dietary irritants. Symptoms can vary but often include discomfort, a burning sensation in the chest or stomach, nausea, and a feeling of fullness or bloating. In your case, the absence of severe pain is a positive sign, but the discomfort you feel should not be ignored.

The treatment for gastric mucosal erosion typically involves the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 receptor antagonists, which help reduce stomach acid production. This reduction in acidity allows the gastric mucosa to heal and can alleviate symptoms. You mentioned being prescribed acid-reducing medication, which is a standard approach in managing such conditions. While lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding trigger foods and maintaining a healthy diet, are essential, medication can significantly expedite the healing process.

Regarding your question about whether you can heal without medication, it is possible for some individuals to manage mild cases of gastric mucosal erosion through lifestyle changes alone. However, this often depends on the severity of the erosion and individual health factors. If the erosion is significant or if you continue to experience symptoms, medication may be necessary to facilitate healing.
As for dietary considerations, apples can be a good choice for many people with gastric issues. They are generally well-tolerated and can provide fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. However, everyone's body reacts differently, so it's essential to monitor how your body responds to specific foods. Drinking warm water, as you mentioned, is also a good practice, as it can help soothe the digestive tract.

In addition to dietary changes, maintaining a regular exercise routine, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep can contribute positively to your overall gastrointestinal health. It's commendable that you are taking proactive steps to improve your lifestyle.

In summary, while lifestyle modifications are crucial for managing gastric mucosal erosion, medication may still be necessary for effective treatment, especially if symptoms persist. It's always best to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations and have regular follow-ups to monitor your condition. If you have any concerns about specific foods or your treatment plan, discussing these with your doctor can provide personalized guidance tailored to your health needs.

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