Frequent Gastritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

There is a gurgling sound in the lower left side of the stomach, often associated with chronic gastritis?

Hello Dr.
Yang,
My situation is as follows: Every time I experience stomach pain, it is due to inflammation, with a very high frequency and severe pain.
Before each episode of intense pain, my stomach becomes very hard, and pressing on it causes pain.
After about 5-10 minutes, my gastrointestinal tract becomes very agitated, and I need to rush to the restroom.
The stool is not diarrhea but rather mushy.
After using the restroom, the severe pain turns into a more uniform and milder pain.
I can have bowel movements 3-5 times a day, which is frequent, and I almost experience stomach pain once every 1-2 weeks, lasting 3-5 days, which I can tolerate.
Due to the high frequency of pain, I only see a doctor and get medication when it becomes unbearable (the prescribed medication is always for gastric inflammation).
This condition seems to be more prevalent in winter than in summer.
The doctor has performed an ultrasound examination on me, and the results appeared normal, but the situation persists.
I would like to ask Dr.
Yang: I have long suffered from stomach pain and wonder if there are any ways to prevent it.
Is there a clinical name for this type of condition? I often hear a sound like water rolling back and forth in the lower left side of my stomach; is this normal? A doctor once informed me that rapid gastrointestinal motility or a shorter intestine could lead to food being expelled before it is fully digested, which would explain why I cannot gain weight.
My complexion is poor (163 cm, 43 kg); are there ways to improve this? If the above conditions require further examination, what tests should I undergo? Thank you.

Chang Shou Wei Tong Zhi Ku De Ren, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/17

Dr. Liang Jiade reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The first thing to clarify is whether the location of your abdominal pain is truly in the stomach.
There are many organs in the upper abdomen.
If you experience severe pain accompanied by a hard abdomen that hurts when pressed, and if the intense pain turns into a more uniform and milder pain after a bowel movement, this condition is more likely due to intestinal issues (such as obstruction or intussusception).
Given that your symptoms have persisted for a considerable amount of time, it is advisable to seek medical attention for a thorough examination, including X-rays or gastrointestinal imaging studies.

Reply Date: 2004/03/17

More Info

Frequent gastritis can be a challenging condition to manage, especially when it leads to recurrent pain and discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing significant gastrointestinal distress characterized by intense stomach pain, frequent bowel movements, and a sensation of urgency. Let's break down the potential causes, symptoms, and solutions for your condition.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Gastritis: This is the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be acute or chronic. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. The pain you describe, particularly the sharpness and the feeling of your stomach being hard, suggests that there may be significant inflammation or irritation in your stomach.

2. Bowel Movements: The fact that you experience frequent, loose stools after episodes of stomach pain could indicate a few things. It may be related to your diet, stress levels, or even an underlying condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The urgency you feel to use the restroom after pain suggests that your gastrointestinal tract is reacting strongly to whatever is causing the inflammation.

3. Hydration and Diet: You mentioned drinking two liters of water daily, which is generally adequate. However, if you're experiencing diarrhea or loose stools, you may need to adjust your diet. Foods that are high in fiber can help regulate bowel movements, while spicy, fatty, or acidic foods can exacerbate gastritis.

Possible Causes
1. Dietary Triggers: Certain foods and beverages, such as alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and high-fat meals, can irritate the stomach lining and lead to gastritis. Keeping a food diary may help identify specific triggers.

2. Stress: Emotional stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or therapy may help alleviate symptoms.

3. Infections: Helicobacter pylori is a common bacterium that can cause gastritis and ulcers. If not already tested, you may want to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

4. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain other medications can irritate the stomach lining. Review any medications you are taking with your doctor.

Solutions and Management
1. Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a bland diet that includes foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet). Avoid irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help.

2. Medications: Over-the-counter antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Omeprazole can help reduce stomach acid and promote healing. However, it's essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding medication use.

3. Regular Follow-ups: Given the frequency of your symptoms, it may be beneficial to have regular check-ups with a gastroenterologist. They may recommend further testing, such as an endoscopy, to assess the condition of your stomach lining and rule out other issues.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques and regular physical activity can improve overall gastrointestinal health. Gentle exercises like walking or yoga can be beneficial.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of pain, bowel habits, and any dietary changes. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in managing your condition.

Conclusion
Your symptoms suggest a complex interplay of factors contributing to your frequent gastritis. While dietary and lifestyle changes can significantly impact your condition, it is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive management plan. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further investigation may be necessary to ensure there are no underlying conditions that require treatment. Remember, you are not alone in this, and with the right approach, it is possible to find relief and improve your quality of life.

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