Gastritis is a disease that causes damage to the gastric mucosa and disruption of its functions. The main danger is that it can become chronic and cause peptic ulcers or even stomach cancer. Anastasia Chizhikova, gastroenterologist, nutritionist and endoscopist at SM-Clinic, told socialbites.ca about the main reasons for the development of gastritis.
According to him, there are two groups of factors in chronic gastritis: external and internal. External factors include Helicobacter pylori infection.
“These bacteria secrete substances that stimulate the stomach to increase the acidity of the juice. They also destroy the protective layer on the walls of the stomach, making the mucous membrane vulnerable to acid. Together, these processes lead to damage to the stomach tissue, inflammation and the formation of ulcers on its walls,” said Chizhikova.
The doctor also noted factors such as irregular and fast eating, eating without chewing, abuse of spices, seasonings, marinades and smoked meats.
“Chronic stress can cause changes in the digestive system, such as increased production of stomach acid, increased contraction of the stomach muscles and decreased protection of the stomach lining. This can lead to damage to the mucous membrane and the development of inflammatory processes characteristic of gastritis,” added the gastroenterologist.
In addition, bad habits such as alcohol and long-term smoking also contribute to the development of gastritis. Alcohol disrupts the natural mucus production in the stomach, blood circulation and slows down cell regeneration. The doctor warned that long-term smoking stimulates the release of more stomach acid.
“You should also understand the harms of consuming foods or substances that irritate the gastric mucosa. This can especially include expired products and some medications. Some drugs, when used for a long time, can cause serious damage (bleeding, erosion, ulcer) to the gastric mucosa, especially the antrum and duodenum. These include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),” said Chizhikova.
Also, according to him, external factors include exposure to radiation. Exposure of the stomach to radiation up to 15 Gy can cause damage to the stomach walls. However, they usually recover completely within four months. However, exceeding this dose may cause irreversible consequences such as ulcers and fibrosis in the stomach.
The doctor notes heredity, duodenogastric reflux (this condition is associated with disorders of the digestive tract, causing destruction of the mucous membrane and degenerative tissue changes when the intestinal contents and bile return to the stomach), autoimmune mechanisms, allergic reactions, metabolic-endocrine disorders, tissue hypoxia (lack of oxygen in the tissues). , deficiency of some vitamins, reflex effects of other affected organs.
“It is important to remember that a regular and balanced diet, giving up bad habits and the correct use of medications can help prevent or reduce the risk of developing gastritis,” said Chizhikova.
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