Prognosis
The acute inflammation in the stomach usually heals spontaneously and leaves no major traces or damage to the stomach lining. More caution is required in the case of chronic inflammation. Depending on the severity of the infection, it can lead to major changes in the stomach lining, such as ulcers or even malignant tumors.
In addition, treatment and follow-up examinations are considerably more complex compared to acute inflammation. While one case may require lengthy treatment with gastric acid blockers and vitamin administration, elimination treatment of the stubborn Helicobacter pylori may remain unsuccessful for a long time due to resistance to the drugs. Especially in the case of Helicobacter pylori inflammation, a breath test or gastroscopy should be performed as a control after about two months of treatment.
In general, all chronic inflammations of the gastric mucosa should still be checked regularly after successful treatment, for example by gastroscopy, in order to rule out stomach ulcers and malignant changes such as cancer or to be able to treat them in time. Furthermore, in the case of type A inflammation, anemia should be clarified in the course of the disease. All in all, it is true that in the case of chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach, the quality of life of those affected is significantly reduced due to the associated complaints, which should be taken into account by the doctor during treatment.
Prophylaxis
In order to prevent inflammation in the stomach, it helps to avoid substances that are harmful to the stomach as much as possible or to consume only small amounts. Typical stomach acid stimulators are alcohol, coffee, nicotine and certain painkillers. In addition, strongly acidic foods are also included. Although stomach acid blockers are often used therapeutically, from a gastroenterological point of view they are not always suitable for prophylaxis, at least not for long-term prophylactic use.It is important to take care of your stomach and to consult an expert doctor as soon as possible in case of complaints.