If you struggle with digestive or intestinal discomfort, you know firsthand how difficult it can be to pinpoint the exact cause. Many gastrointestinal conditions have overlapping symptoms, making them hard to diagnose. One often overlooked issue that may be at the root of chronic gut problems is gastritis, which can be addressed effectively through approaches like those offered at functional medicine Beverly Hills.
Understanding Gastritis
Gastritis isn’t a single condition, but rather a general term for inflammation of the stomach lining. The inflammation can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (developing over time), and its severity varies depending on the cause and how long it has gone untreated. Many people experience gastritis symptoms without realizing it, often mistaking them for a sensitive stomach or a bad reaction to certain foods. Fortunately, gastritis is treatable once properly diagnosed.
Causes of Gastritis
Understanding the underlying cause of your gastritis is key to treating it effectively. Here are some of the most common triggers:
- Overuse of NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin, especially when taken frequently or over a long period.
- Excessive alcohol consumption, which irritates and erodes the stomach lining.
- Chronic stress, which can increase stomach acid and contribute to inflammation.
- pylori infection, a type of bacteria that lives in the stomach lining and often goes unnoticed. If left untreated, it can lead to ulcers or even increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Symptoms of Gastritis
Though symptoms vary, common signs include:
- Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Indigestion or a burning sensation in the stomach
Many people may attribute these symptoms to poor eating habits or stress, but if they persist, it’s important to get evaluated by a healthcare provider, such as those at functional medicine Sherman Oaks, who can offer a more personalized approach to treatment.
Treating Gastritis
The good news is that gastritis is often very manageable once the cause is identified, and functional medicine Encino can provide tailored strategies to address the root issue effectively.
Treatment options typically include a mix of medication, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments:
- Stop taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a better option as it’s gentler on the stomach.
- Eliminate alcohol and stop smoking, both of which can aggravate the stomach lining.
- Limit irritating foods and beverages, including:
- Caffeinated drinks
- Citrus-based juices and carbonated beverages containing citric acid
- Dairy and high-fat foods
- Gas-producing vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower
- Treat H. pylori, if present, with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, along with acid-reducing medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers.