Treatment
Treatment for gastritis varies and depends on the underlying cause. Lifestyle modifications (e.g., dietary changes) can help reduce symptoms.
Patients may be advised to avoid caffeine (e.g., in coffee, colas), alcohol, and certain medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen), and limit spicy foods. Patients should contact a qualified health care provider if symptoms persist or worsen in spite of treatment, or if additional symptoms develop.
Medications that may be used include the following:
- Antacids to relieve minor symptoms
- Antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection
- Coating agents (e.g., Carafate®, Cytotec®)
- Histamine-2 blocks (e.g., Tagamet®, Zantac®)
- Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., Prevacid®, Prilosec®)
- Vitamin B12 injections
Gastritis usually responds well to treatment and most patients recover within 2–3 months. In rare cases, surgery (e.g., partial or subtotal gastrectomy) may be necessary to treat an underlying condition associated with gastritis, such as severe prolonged bleeding.
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 29 Feb 2008
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 22 Feb 2008
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