Superficial Gastritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management

Superficial gastritis

Hello Doctor: For the past two years, I have been experiencing discomfort in my stomach, including frequent bloating, gastric pain, inflammation, and a lack of hunger or satiety.
Sometimes the inflammation causes severe discomfort, including cramping and cold sweats, and there have been instances of hunger pangs.
I have frequently visited the clinic for consultations.
Previously, due to episodes of hunger pain, the doctor suspected a duodenal ulcer, but I did not undergo an endoscopy at that time.
After taking medication for about two months, my symptoms improved.
However, since the end of last year, my symptoms have recurred, primarily related to inflammation, with the frequency of episodes gradually decreasing.
Therefore, I underwent an endoscopy in May, which showed no Helicobacter pylori and no ulcers.
The clinic doctor diagnosed me with superficial gastritis and prescribed medication for one month.
After finishing the medication, my symptoms flared up again shortly after, with severe inflammation, a lack of hunger, and significant bloating, making it uncomfortable to breathe.
I returned to the clinic for a follow-up.
Since I will be traveling abroad for four months next year, I am concerned about the recurring symptoms, as I need to take medication to gradually alleviate them.
However, when I asked the doctor, he said I cannot obtain a continuous prescription unless there is a documented history of ulcer disease.
The medications prescribed by the doctor have remained unchanged since last year, and during follow-ups every three days, he only spends a minute saying I am not yet better but cannot prescribe long-term medication.
I am very worried about how to manage my medication while abroad.
Isn't superficial gastritis considered a chronic condition?

Youzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/15

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, the gastroenterologist at the hospital generally assists in issuing long-term prescriptions, while the clinic physician may vary by individual.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2017/09/15

More Info

Superficial gastritis, also known as superficial gastric mucosal inflammation, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining without the presence of ulcers. It can lead to various symptoms and requires careful management to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

Symptoms
Patients with superficial gastritis often experience symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper abdomen
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Indigestion or heartburn
- In some cases, patients may experience episodes of hunger pangs or pain that can be relieved by eating.

In your case, the symptoms of bloating, abdominal pain, and a lack of hunger are consistent with superficial gastritis. The episodes of pain that lead to sweating could indicate a more severe reaction to the inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of patient history, symptom evaluation, and diagnostic tests. An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD) is often performed to visualize the stomach lining directly and to obtain biopsies if necessary. In your situation, the absence of Helicobacter pylori and ulcers during the endoscopy suggests that the inflammation is indeed superficial.

Management
Management of superficial gastritis focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing any underlying causes. Here are some key strategies:
1. Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole or esomeprazole are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid and promote healing. Antacids may also be used for symptomatic relief. It's essential to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding medication duration and dosage.

2. Dietary Modifications: Avoiding irritants such as spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods can help reduce symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals may also alleviate discomfort.

3. Lifestyle Changes: Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise, can be beneficial since stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Additionally, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight can improve overall digestive health.

4. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is crucial, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. If your symptoms are recurrent, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other conditions.

5. Long-Term Management: Since you mentioned concerns about obtaining a continuous prescription for medication, it may be helpful to discuss your travel plans with your doctor. They might be able to provide a solution, such as a longer prescription or alternative medications that can be taken as needed.

Conclusion
Superficial gastritis can be a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. While it may not be classified as a severe disease, the discomfort it causes can significantly impact your quality of life. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, especially regarding your symptoms and any concerns about medication access during your travels. If your symptoms continue to recur despite treatment, further investigation may be warranted to ensure there are no other underlying issues contributing to your discomfort.

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