Gastritis with low acidity

Gastritis with low acidity: diagnosis, treatment, and recommendations

Gastritis with low acidity: diagnosis, treatment, and recommendations

Features of gastritis with low acidity

Gastritis with low acidity, also known as anacidity, is characterized by insufficient secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. This type of gastritis usually manifests as heaviness in the epigastric area, a feeling of fullness after eating, and bloating. A distinguishing feature is that symptoms worsen after consuming food rich in fats or large amounts of carbohydrates. Treatment of gastritis with low acidity typically includes dietary recommendations, the intake of hydrochloric acids, and enzymes to normalize digestion.

Etiology of gastritis with low acidity

Gastritis with low acidity can have several causes, including chronic and acute infections of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as autoimmune disorders. One of the common factors contributing to this type of gastritis is an infection with Helicobacter pylori, which can lead to inflammation of the stomach lining. Additionally, disorders in the function of the thyroid gland and other autoimmune diseases can also cause gastritis with low acidity.

  • Helicobacter pylori infection: this is one of the main causes of gastritis with low acidity, as this pathogen can cause inflammation of the stomach lining.
  • Autoimmune disorders: autoimmune diseases, such as autoimmune gastritis, can lead to the development of gastritis with low acidity.
  • Thyroid dysfunction: hypothyroidism may be associated with the development of gastritis with low acidity.
  • Poor diet: a diet rich in fatty, spicy, or smoked foods, as well as excess alcohol or smoking, can contribute to the development of gastritis with low acidity.
  • Stress and psycho-emotional factors: constant stress and nervous tension can have a negative impact on the stomach, causing the development of gastritis with low acidity.

The clinical picture of gastritis with reduced acidity

Gastritis with low acidity can manifest a variety of symptoms, such as pain and heaviness in the epigastric area, belching, and a feeling of fullness in the abdomen after eating. Patients may also experience a decrease in appetite, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. In some patients, there may be weight loss, weakness, and even symptoms of dyspepsia, such as bloating and discomfort in the abdomen. Relying on the characteristics of the symptoms and the results of additional examinations, doctors can suggest the presence of gastritis with low acidity and prescribe appropriate treatment.

  • Pain and heaviness in the epigastric area: patients often complain of unpleasant sensations in the stomach area.
  • Belching: belching can be one of the symptoms indicating gastritis with low acidity.
  • Feeling of fullness in the abdomen after eating: patients may experience discomfort and a feeling of fullness after meals.
  • Decreased appetite: gastritis with low acidity is often accompanied by loss of appetite.
  • Weakness and fatigue: patients may experience weakness, fatigue, and even weight loss due to gastritis with low acidity.

Approaches to the treatment of gastritis with low acidity

Experts usually recommend an individualized approach to the treatment of gastritis with low acidity, taking into account the specifics of each patient. Depending on the specific symptoms and causes, the treating physician may prescribe medications that help increase acidity in the stomach, antibiotics to combat the infectious agent Helicobacter pylori (if detected), and medications that promote the healing of the gastric mucosa. Dietary recommendations, including moderate consumption of fatty and spicy foods, may also be an important part of the therapy for gastritis with low acidity.

Methods for diagnosing gastritis with low acidity

For the diagnosis of gastritis with low acidity, various methods may be used, including endoscopy of the upper digestive tract with biopsy samples of the gastric mucosa for analysis. Laboratory studies may also include blood tests for specific markers, such as antibodies to Helicobacter pylori or other autoimmune factors that may be associated with gastritis. Other diagnostic methods, such as gastric pH levels or special tests for intestinal function, may also be conducted to determine the degree of acidity and the overall condition of the patient’s digestive system.

  • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy: allows for a visual assessment of the condition of the gastric mucosa and the collection of biopsy samples for further analysis.
  • Laboratory tests: include a blood test for markers such as antibodies to Helicobacter pylori, as well as checking the pH level in the stomach.
  • Functional tests: for example, tests for intestinal function may be conducted to determine the overall condition of the patient’s digestive system.
  • Abdominal ultrasound: may be used for additional visualization of the abdominal organs and to identify possible changes in the stomach.
  • Gastroenterography: an X-ray examination that allows for the study of the contour and morphology of the stomach and the identification of pathological changes.

Methods of treating gastritis with low acidity

Treatment of gastritis with low acidity may include the use of medications aimed at improving digestion and maintaining normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. This may include taking medications that contain digestive enzymes, as well as probiotics that help restore the normal microflora of the intestines. For patients with gastritis and low acidity, it is also important to regularly monitor their diet and avoid foods that may negatively affect the condition of the gastric mucosa. In some cases, long-term treatment may be required, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and careful monitoring by a specialist.

  • Use of digestive enzyme preparations: preparations containing enzymes can help improve the digestion process in patients with gastritis with low acidity.
  • Use of probiotics: taking probiotics contributes to the restoration of normal intestinal microflora and may have a positive effect on the condition of the stomach.
  • Diet control: it is important to monitor the diet, avoiding spicy, fried, and fatty foods, as well as products that can irritate the gastric mucosa.
  • Regular monitoring by a specialist: patients with gastritis with low acidity should regularly visit a doctor to monitor their condition and adjust treatment.
  • Individual approach to treatment: each patient has unique characteristics, so the treatment of gastritis with low acidity should be tailored to individual needs.

Measures to prevent gastritis with low acidity

The prevention of gastritis with low acidity includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular consumption of food rich in nutrients, and avoiding highly acidic or fatty products that may negatively affect the condition of the gastric mucosa. Additionally, it is recommended to follow a dietary regimen, avoid excessive alcohol and nicotine consumption, and engage in regular physical exercise to maintain overall digestive health. It is also important to undergo regular medical examinations, especially in the presence of risk factors such as hereditary conditions, stress, or drug abuse, for the timely detection and prevention of gastritis with low acidity.

  • Healthy eating: Include nutrient-rich foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, and low-fat dairy products.
  • Avoiding harmful habits: Quit consuming alcohol and cigarettes, which can negatively affect the condition of the stomach lining and increase the risk of developing gastritis.
  • Regular physical exercise: Maintain an active lifestyle by engaging in physical exercises, which contribute to overall health and the functioning of the digestive system.
  • Following a diet regimen: Eat regularly and avoid overeating, as this can put extra strain on the stomach and lead to irritation of the lining.
  • Regular medical check-ups: Have systematic check-ups with a doctor, especially if there are risk factors, to timely identify any changes in the condition of the digestive system and take preventive measures.

Incredible aspects of gastritis with low acidity

Hypochlorhydric gastritis is a relatively rare condition that has its own features and interesting aspects. One of the characteristics is that the symptoms of hypochlorhydric gastritis may not be as pronounced as those of regular gastritis with high acidity, making diagnosis more challenging. It is also interesting that the treatment of hypochlorhydric gastritis requires an individualized approach, taking into account diet, the use of probiotics, and other factors that may help improve gastrointestinal function in the patient.

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