5 Min Read
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, nausea, indigestion, and stomach pain. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), and in severe cases, it may lead to ulcers or even stomach cancer. While it might seem like a recurring or persistent condition, gastritis can be managed and even resolved permanently by addressing its root causes.
This comprehensive guide outlines what truly works to eliminate gastritis, not just temporarily relieve it. Scroll till the end to read what our expert gastroenterologist in Gurgaon has to say.
Synopsis
Understanding Gastritis: Types and Causes
Types of Gastritis:
-
Acute Gastritis – Sudden inflammation often due to irritants like alcohol, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), or bacterial infection.
-
Chronic Gastritis – Long-standing inflammation, typically caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection or autoimmune disorders.
Common Causes:
-
H. pylori infection: This bacteria damages the stomach lining, causing inflammation and increasing the risk of ulcers.
-
Overuse of NSAIDs: Medications like ibuprofen reduce protective mucus in the stomach, making the lining vulnerable to acid.
-
Alcohol consumption: Alcohol irritates and erodes the stomach lining, leading to inflammation over time.
-
Smoking: Tobacco increases stomach acid and reduces blood flow to the stomach lining, slowing healing and worsening irritation.
-
Stress and anxiety: These can increase acid production and impair digestion, triggering or worsening symptoms of gastritis.
-
Autoimmune response: The immune system mistakenly attacks stomach lining cells, leading to chronic inflammation and vitamin B12 deficiency.
-
Bile reflux: Bile flowing back from the small intestine into the stomach irritates the lining and mimics gastritis symptoms.
Diet high in processed or acidic foods: Such diets can trigger excess acid production and aggravate inflammation in the stomach.
What Actually Works to Get Rid of Gastritis Permanently
1. Eradicate H. pylori (If Present)
H. pylori bacteria are a leading cause of chronic gastritis. If you test positive (via breath, stool, or endoscopy), treatment typically involves:
Triple therapy:
-
Antibiotics
-
A proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
-
After treatment, follow up with your doctor to confirm eradication via testing.
Tip: Some people need second-line treatments due to antibiotic resistance. Always finish your full course of antibiotics.
2. Adopt a Gastritis-Healing Diet
Foods to Include:
-
Cooked vegetables (carrots, squash, spinach)
-
Lean proteins (chicken, tofu, fish)
-
Probiotic foods (yoghurt)
-
Whole grains (brown rice, oats)
-
Non-acidic fruits (bananas, papaya, melons)
-
Herbal teas (chamomile)
Foods to Avoid:
-
Spicy and fried foods
-
Coffee and caffeinated drinks
-
Alcohol
-
Processed meats
-
Carbonated beverages
-
Tomato-based products and citrus fruits (if symptomatic)
Anti-inflammatory eating is key. Take bland, cooked, and easy-to-digest meals during flare-ups.
3. Use Targeted Supplements (With Medical Guidance)
-
Probiotics: Restore gut flora, especially after antibiotics
-
Zinc carnosine: Helps heal the stomach lining
-
L-glutamine: Supports gut integrity
-
Slippery elm or marshmallow root: Soothes the GI tract
Always consult the best gastroenterologist in Gurgaon before adding supplements, especially if on medications.
4. Limit NSAID Use
Long-term use of NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen can erode the stomach lining. If needed, use under medical supervision and with a PPI to protect the stomach.
5. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Both smoking and alcohol increase stomach acid, delay healing, and exacerbate gastritis. Quitting significantly improves stomach lining recovery.
6. Manage Stress Effectively
Stress doesn’t cause gastritis directly, but it can worsen symptoms and delay healing. Chronic stress may also affect gut flora and acid production.
Effective strategies:
-
Daily mindfulness or meditation
-
Gentle yoga or stretching
-
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
-
Journaling or relaxation exercises
7. Follow a Long-Term Maintenance Plan
Even after symptoms subside, stay consistent with:
-
Healthy diet habits
-
Avoiding known irritants
-
Stress management
-
Regular check-ups for chronic gastritis or H. pylori were present
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience:
-
Severe or persistent abdominal pain
-
Vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like material
-
Black, tarry stools
-
Unexplained weight loss
-
Difficulty eating or swallowing
These may indicate ulcers, bleeding, or other complications.
Can Gastritis Be Cured Permanently?
Yes, if the underlying cause is identified and properly treated, gastritis can be cured. For example:
-
H. pylori-related gastritis is often fully resolved after successful eradication.
-
NSAID-induced gastritis can heal if the drugs are stopped and the lining is allowed to repair.
-
Autoimmune gastritis may not be "cured" but can be managed with lifelong care and monitoring.
-
The key lies in early diagnosis, personalised treatment, and long-term lifestyle adjustments.
Conclusion
Getting rid of gastritis permanently is possible for many people. The combination of correct diagnosis, targeted treatment (especially for H. pylori), anti-inflammatory nutrition, and healthy lifestyle habits is powerful and effective in treating this medical condition. Healing the stomach lining takes time, patience, and consistency, so stick to these healthy changes, and you will observe the results.
Whether you're battling acute episodes or dealing with chronic gastritis, use this guide as a roadmap to long-term relief and digestive health.
FAQ's
In Gurgaon, gastritis is often triggered by spicy street food, irregular eating habits, stress, H. pylori infection, overuse of painkillers (NSAIDs), and pollution-related stressors. Many residents also experience gastritis due to high tea/coffee consumption and smoking.
Yes. The consumption of heavily spiced, oily, or unhygienic food commonly found in street food can irritate the stomach lining and cause or worsen gastritis. Late-night eating and skipping meals are also contributing lifestyle factors.
While pollution doesn't directly cause gastritis, it can increase overall stress and inflammation, weaken immunity, and indirectly worsen gastritis symptoms, especially in those already prone to gastric issues.
Yes. Locally available remedies like cold milk, coconut water, jeera (cumin) water, buttermilk with hing (asafoetida), and liquorice root (mulethi) can help soothe gastritis. However, chronic symptoms need medical attention.
Not always. Mild cases can be managed with symptoms and non-invasive tests. But if you have chronic pain, bleeding, or weight loss, gastroenterologists in Gurgaon may recommend an upper GI endoscopy for accurate diagnosis.
Share this article on:
.webp "Leukemia Symptoms, Causes and treatments")
