This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Gastritis is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder with various causes, including alcohol consumption, stress, and chronic inflammation. Recent research highlights the potential of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, traditional Chinese medicine, and nutritional interventions in treating gastritis. Understanding the underlying causes and symptoms of gastritis is crucial for effective management and improving patients’ quality of life.
Gastritis is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be acute or chronic and is caused by various factors, including infections, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), excessive alcohol consumption, and stress. This article explores the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments for gastritis, drawing on recent research findings.
Causes of Gastritis
Gastritis can be triggered by several factors:
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake is a significant cause of gastritis. Alcohol irritates and erodes the stomach lining, leading to inflammation and ulceration. A study demonstrated that rosmarinic acid (RA) could protect against ethanol-induced gastritis by enhancing antioxidant defenses and maintaining mucosal barrier integrity1.
- Stress: Stress-induced gastritis is prevalent, especially in intensive care settings. Stress can lead to increased gastric acid secretion and reduced blood flow to the stomach lining, causing inflammation. Research has shown that zeaxanthin (ZE) has a gastroprotective effect against stress-induced gastritis by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation2.
- Chronic Inflammation: Chronic gastritis is often caused by prolonged inflammation of the stomach lining. Factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, autoimmune disorders, and long-term use of NSAIDs can contribute to chronic gastritis. Modified Zhengqi Powder has been found effective in treating chronic gastritis with mild intestinal metaplasia, improving patients’ quality of life and reducing inflammatory factors3.
Symptoms of Gastritis
The symptoms of gastritis can vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and belching
- Loss of appetite
- Indigestion
- In severe cases, bleeding in the stomach may occur, leading to black, tarry stools or vomiting blood.
Disclaimer
The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.