GASTRITIS

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining. The stomach lining is essential as it protects the stomach from acids, enzymes, and various microorganisms. Gastritis occurs in 8 out of 1000 people.

Gastritis can be classified as acute, which happens suddenly and lasts for a short time, or chronic, which develops gradually over a long period.

Causes of Gastritis

• Excessive use of alcohol
• Stress and tension
• Use of medications like aspirin or NSAIDs
• Infections like H. pylori
• Eating disorders
• Chronic vomiting
• Not eating at the right time
• Eating hurriedly

Clinical Features

Gastritis usually does not cause noticeable symptoms. However, if symptoms do occur, it indicates a more severe condition. Symptoms arise when the stomach lining is damaged, making it unable to defend against its own acids and enzymes. Some common symptoms include:

• Pain in the stomach
• Bloating of the abdomen
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Early satiety (feeling full too soon)
• Weight loss
• Belching
• Heaviness
• Heartburn

Severe Cases:

• Hematemesis (vomiting of blood)
• Melena (black blood in stools)

Diagnosis

• X-ray of the upper gastrointestinal tract
• Upper endoscopy
• Blood tests
• Stool tests
• H. pylori breath tests

Homoeopathic Remedies for Gastritis

Homoeopathic medicines are recommended for gastritis as they are safe and do not cause side effects.

• Nux Vomica: Indicated in cases of chronic gastritis caused by the abuse of stimulants like tobacco, alcohol, or highly spiced foods, especially when the individual is a workaholic and experiences significant stress. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting.
• Lycopodium: Recommended for excessive bloating of the abdomen, gas accumulation especially in the lower abdomen, sour eructations, heartburn, and headache when not eating.
• Phosphorus: Prescribed for great burning in the stomach, which improves with cold foods and drinks. Used when there is blood vomiting, where the blood is bright red.
• China: One of the top remedies for bloated abdomen with gas accumulation. Symptoms include sour eructations.
• Carbo Veg: Used for bloating with gas accumulation in the upper abdomen, along with poor digestion.

These are some of the most common remedies for gastritis.