Introduction
Chronic gastritis is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which is particularly common in middle-aged people. This inflammation persists over a long period of time, sometimes even for years, and causes permanent changes in certain cells of the stomach lining. In contrast to acute gastritis, chronic gastritis often shows no symptoms at first, which is why it often goes unnoticed.
If symptoms occur, they may resemble the symptoms of acute gastritis. In most cases, however, they are very unspecific. Despite the minor symptoms, treatment is very important in order to avoid late damage.
Chronic gastritis can be divided into different forms (type A, B or C gastritis), depending on the cause. In addition, there are some special forms of chronic gastritis. The diagnosis of a chronic gastritis is confirmed by a gastroscopy with a biopsy.
A so-called gastroscope, i.e. a thin tube with a camera at the end, is inserted through the esophagus into the stomach to assess the stomach lining. At the same time, a tissue sample (biopsy) can be taken with the aid of certain instruments, which is then examined by pathologists in order to detect changes in the mucous membrane and possible triggers. There are also other tests that can be used to diagnose gastritis.
Depending on the cause, certain bacteria, antigens, antibodies or autoantibodies can be detected in the stool or blood. The cells of the stomach lining change in the course of chronic gastritis and in the worst case can degenerate into a stomach carcinoma. For this reason, regular check-ups are very important for people with chronic gastritis in order to detect and treat the development of cancer at an early stage.
Causes
The causes of chronic gastritis differ and lead to different types of gastritis. They are divided into types A, B and C. There are also some special forms. Besides these three types, there are also special forms of chronic gastritis.
It can occur, for example, in the context of the chronic intestinal disease Crohn’s disease.
- Type A gastritis is caused by a defect in the body’s own defense system. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces antibodies that are directed against so-called host cells.
These cells are located in the stomach lining and are responsible for the production of gastric acid and the so-called intrinsic factor.
- Type B gastritis is caused by bacteria of the genus Helicobacter pylori. These can be transmitted by spitting or stool and often remain unnoticed in the stomach for years. There they penetrate into the uppermost layer of mucous membrane and can survive despite the aggressive stomach acid because they neutralize it.
These bacteria can lead to ulcers of the stomach and duodenum.
- Type C gastritis is triggered by chemical stimuli. These include, above all, certain drugs from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These include aetylsalicylic acid (ASS, Aspirin®), Ibuprofen® and Diclofenac®.
These drugs attack the stomach lining and can cause damage to the mucous membranes if they are taken over a long period of time. Another cause can be bile that flows back from the duodenum into the stomach (bile reflux), where it causes irritation of the stomach lining. This is particularly common after stomach surgery.
Gastritis can be caused or maintained by too much stress.
The inflammation of the mucous membranes can also develop into a stomach ulcer as a result of stress. This carries the risk of bleeding and often causes complaints such as abdominal pain, nausea, a feeling of fullness and loss of appetite. If it has come to this, a doctor should be consulted.
The basic rules also apply to gastritis, which is mainly caused by stress: A light diet, avoiding fatty or spicy foods, no alcohol but warm tea or still water, no coffee or nicotine. If possible, the intake of painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac should also be avoided. In addition, of course: stress reduction as best you can.
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