Acute Gastritis: Symptoms, Recovery, and Dietary Tips

Stomach pain issues?

Hello Doctor, two Fridays ago during dinner, I experienced acute stomach pain due to overeating.
The pain was so severe that I couldn't sleep that night; turning over or walking caused discomfort.
I later visited a clinic, and the doctor suggested it might be acute gastritis.
I was prescribed medication for my stomach and for gastrointestinal motility.
After two or three days, my symptoms improved significantly, and I was able to return to normal activities.
However, I still feel a slight dull pain in my stomach (in the upper abdomen, slightly left of center, sometimes radiating to my left chest), especially in the morning.
My mouth also has a sour taste, and I've been experiencing more frequent burping.
After meals, I have mild gastroesophageal reflux, but I don't actually vomit.
The stomach pain tends to ease a bit after eating.
These symptoms have persisted for about a week.
My bowel movements are normal and solid, and I haven't had any black stools.
Currently, I am not experiencing any severe pain.
I would like to ask if this is a residual effect of the previous acute gastritis and how long it might take to fully recover.
I have no prior history of stomach pain, so I am concerned whether this could develop into chronic gastritis or a peptic ulcer.
Lastly, could you recommend what foods I should eat to protect my gastrointestinal health?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/24

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It may take a few more days to adjust the diet to be light and easily digestible, with less acidity, sweetness, and spiciness, while also using medication for control.
If there is no improvement, an endoscopy may be necessary.

Reply Date: 2021/03/24

More Info

Acute gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can occur suddenly and is often triggered by factors such as overeating, alcohol consumption, stress, or infection. Your experience of acute stomach pain after a heavy meal, followed by a diagnosis of acute gastritis, aligns with common symptoms of this condition. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
In your case, it seems that after a few days of medication, your symptoms improved significantly, which is a positive sign. However, the lingering discomfort you describe, particularly the dull pain in the upper abdomen and the sensation of acid in your mouth, may indicate that your stomach is still recovering from the inflammation. It is not uncommon for individuals recovering from acute gastritis to experience residual symptoms for a week or more, especially if the stomach lining is still healing.

Regarding your concern about whether these symptoms could lead to chronic gastritis or peptic ulcers, it is essential to understand that while acute gastritis can resolve completely, repeated episodes or ongoing irritation can lead to chronic gastritis. Chronic gastritis can be caused by factors such as long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), excessive alcohol consumption, or infection with Helicobacter pylori. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation, which may include an endoscopy to assess the condition of your stomach lining.

As for dietary recommendations to protect your stomach, here are some tips:
1. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of large meals, opt for smaller portions throughout the day to reduce the burden on your stomach.

2. Choose Bland Foods: Foods that are easy to digest, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet), can be soothing for your stomach.

3. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or fried foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol, which can exacerbate gastric irritation.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, but avoid carbonated beverages that can cause bloating.

5. Incorporate Probiotics: Foods like yogurt or fermented products can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your gut, which may aid in recovery.

6. Limit Dairy Products: Some individuals find that dairy can aggravate their symptoms, especially during a recovery phase.

7. Monitor Your Body's Responses: Pay attention to how your body reacts to different foods and adjust your diet accordingly. If certain foods seem to trigger discomfort, it may be best to avoid them.

8. Consider Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate gastric symptoms, so incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise may be beneficial.

In summary, while your symptoms may be residual effects of acute gastritis, they should gradually improve with proper care and dietary adjustments. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is crucial to rule out any complications. Remember to listen to your body and give it the time it needs to heal.

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