Gastritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Tips for Relief

Gastrointestinal discomfort

Two days ago, after suddenly feeling full, I experienced severe pain above my navel that lasted all night, preventing me from sleeping.
Later, I took an over-the-counter medication called "Zhi Ni Kui," and I unknowingly fell asleep.
The next day, I felt fine, but today at work, after eating, the pain suddenly returned.
It was so intense that I couldn't speak, and I was sweating profusely.
The pain in my stomach was excruciating, and I felt like I was going to faint.
A colleague took me to the emergency room, and by the time we arrived, the pain had eased somewhat.
At the hospital, an X-ray showed no significant issues, and the doctor suggested it might be gastritis, prescribing me some medication.
After returning to work, the pain started again, prompting me to rush back to the hospital.
This time, I underwent an endoscopy and an ultrasound, which confirmed that my liver and gallbladder were fine.
During the endoscopy, I heard the doctor mention something about inflammation caused by indigestion.
The doctor reiterated that I had gastritis and found no other significant issues, giving me an additional painkiller.
After eating at home, I experienced pain again, and later, after getting up to urinate at night, I felt pain once more.
Each episode lasted about 10-20 minutes.
Could this really just be simple gastritis? If so, how should I eat to avoid the pain, as it is truly unbearable? Thank you.

Alicia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/08

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, a 33-year-old female.
Recurrent abdominal pain occurs after meals, lasting 10-20 minutes each time.
There has been improvement with medication for ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux at night.
Gastroscopy and ultrasound examinations show gastritis.
Dietary recommendations for acute gastritis include avoiding rapid eating, reducing spicy foods, coffee, chocolate, carbonated beverages, and limiting fried foods, while also promoting relaxation.
Follow-up is advised; if pain persists, further investigation for other causes such as gastrointestinal, pancreatic, or biliary diseases, or psychosomatic issues, or medication adjustments may be necessary.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2022/02/08

More Info

Gastritis, or inflammation of the stomach lining, can be a painful and distressing condition. It can arise from various causes, including excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), stress, bacterial infections (most notably Helicobacter pylori), and certain dietary choices. Understanding the symptoms and implementing dietary changes can significantly help in managing gastritis and alleviating discomfort.

Symptoms of Gastritis
Common symptoms of gastritis include:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort, often described as a burning sensation.

- Nausea or vomiting.

- Bloating and gas.

- Indigestion or dyspepsia.

- Loss of appetite.

- In severe cases, symptoms may include vomiting blood or having black, tarry stools, which indicate bleeding in the stomach.

Dietary Tips for Relief
1. Avoid Irritating Foods: Certain foods can exacerbate gastritis symptoms. It's advisable to avoid:
- Spicy foods, which can irritate the stomach lining.

- Acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, and vinegar.

- Caffeinated drinks, including coffee and certain sodas, as they can increase stomach acid production.

- Alcohol, which can inflame the stomach lining and worsen symptoms.

- Fried and fatty foods, which can slow digestion and increase discomfort.

2. Opt for Gentle Foods: Focus on a diet that is easy on the stomach:
- Soft, bland foods: Foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet) can be soothing.

- Lean proteins: Skinless chicken, turkey, and fish are good options. Eggs can also be a gentle source of protein.

- Cooked vegetables: Steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and spinach are easier to digest than raw ones.

- Whole grains: Oatmeal, whole grain bread, and brown rice can provide fiber without irritating the stomach.

3. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, try eating smaller portions throughout the day. This can help reduce the burden on your stomach and minimize symptoms.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but avoid drinking large amounts during meals, as this can increase stomach pressure and discomfort.

5. Consider Probiotics: Probiotics, found in yogurt and fermented foods, can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your gut, potentially aiding in digestion and reducing inflammation.

6. Limit Stress: Stress can exacerbate gastritis symptoms. Incorporating stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise can be beneficial.

Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to dietary changes, consider the following lifestyle modifications:
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating: This can help prevent acid reflux and further irritation of the stomach lining.

- Quit smoking: Smoking can increase stomach acid and delay healing.

- Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve digestion and reduce stress.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If symptoms persist despite dietary changes and over-the-counter medications, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing, such as an endoscopy, to assess the condition of your stomach lining and rule out other potential issues.

In summary, managing gastritis involves a combination of dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment when necessary. By avoiding irritants and focusing on soothing foods, you can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific condition.

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