Treating Gastritis

Take your medications as directed, even if your stomach pain goes away.

A medical evaluation will be done to find out the cause of your symptoms. The evaluation may include your health history, an exam, and some tests. Once your evaluation is done, treatment can begin. It may include taking certain medications and making some lifestyle changes. Follow your doctor's advice.

Taking Medications

Your doctor may prescribe some medications to neutralize or reduce excess stomach acids. If tests show that H. pylori are in your stomach lining, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Avoid foods that make your symptoms worse. Also, avoid alcohol and tobacco,  as well as aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications.

Avoiding Certain Things

Aspirin. Avoid taking aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications. They can irritate your stomach lining. Also, check with your doctor before taking or stopping any medications.

Spicy Foods and Caffeine. Stay away from foods prepared with spices, especially black pepper. Caffeine can also make your symptoms worse. So, avoid coffee, tea, cola drinks, and chocolate. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other foods or liquids that bother your stomach.

Tobacco and Alcohol. Don't use tobacco or drink alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol can increase stomach acids and worsen your gastritis symptoms.

Reducing Your Stress

Stress may make your gastritis symptoms worse. Whenever you can, reduce the stress in your life. One way to do this is to start an exercise program-talk to your doctor first. Also, try to get enough sleep, at least 8 hours a night.