What Is Involved in Stomach Inflammation Treatment?

Stomach inflammation, also known as gastritis, is described as inflammation of the stomach lining. This may be caused by certain bacteria or by overuse of painkillers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Use of cocaine, overuse of alcohol, and radiation treatments may also cause this condition. Fortunately, there are a handful of stomach inflammation treatments available to help assuage digestive discomfort and calm the inflammation. Some of these treatments are concentrated chemical medications, while others are herbal or involve a change in diet. Doctors often prescribe several kinds of stomach inflammation treatment to help control the condition.

One of the first things many patients with gastritis take is an over-the-counter antacid. Sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, calcium carbonate, and magnesia may all be suggested by a doctor upon diagnosis. Many of these medications are available without a prescription, but severe cases of gastritis may require the doctor to prescribe a very strong antacid medication. In these cases, patients should not take a strong stomach inflammation treatment more often than recommended. Prescription antacids can cause stomach upset or worsen the condition they’re meant to treat if the patient does not take them properly.

Histamine blockers and proton pump inhibitors may also be prescribed as part of a stomach inflammation treatment. These medications reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach. When the stomach lining is inflamed, the digestive acids that naturally occur there may exacerbate the condition. With less acid being produced in the stomach, the lining has a better chance of healing completely. One of the frustrating parts of gastritis is that the body works against itself. In other words, the stomach requires acids to work, but those very acids may cause gastritis in an irritated stomach.

Doctors may also recommend a number of home and herbal remedies as part of a stomach inflammation treatment. Dairy often irritates an already inflamed stomach, so those with this condition should typically avoid milk, yogurt, ice cream, and cheese during recovery. Drinking plenty of water may also help wash away the bacteria causing the condition and soothe irritation. Peppermint, licorice, and ginger are often recommended as a combination stomach inflammation treatment because they aid digestion and ease inflammation.

Goldenseal and marshmallow supplements may be prescribed as stomach inflammation treatments, along with vitamin E. Herbalists say that goldenseal kills the irritating bacteria, while marshmallow aids digestion, and the vitamin E helps the lining heal. Papaya and pineapple are also rich in acids that help the body produce digestive enzymes, which may help it break down food more easily. Doctors may recommend that these fruit supplements be taken with meals as one of a patient’s stomach inflammation treatments.