• Published on: May 04, 2022
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Gastritis Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

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Gastritis is a condition that describes the inflammation of the stomach lining. Gastritis can be caused by a variety of things, including infection, injury, or autoimmune disease. Symptoms of gastritis include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, and bloating. Treatment for gastritis depends on the underlying cause; however, antacids and other stomach-lining protectants are often used to help relieve symptoms. If you think you may have gastritis, it's important to see your doctor so that an accurate diagnosis can be made and appropriate treatment can be started.

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can have many different causes, but most often it is caused by infection with bacteria or viruses. Gastritis can also be caused by injury to the stomach lining, such as from overuse of pain relievers or alcohol. Symptoms of gastritis may include stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. Treatment for gastritis usually involves taking medications to reduce stomach acid and heal the inflamed stomach lining. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to remove part of the stomach lining that has been damaged by gastritis.

Common causes include stress, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Symptoms of gastritis include pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, bloating, heartburn, and nausea. Gastritis can usually be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. However, in some cases, it may require medical treatment. If you think you may have gastritis, it's important to see your doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat the condition.

Gastritis is a condition that any of us could develop. It happens when our stomach lining becomes inflamed. Due to this can range from discomfort and pain to bleeding. While it isn’t a life-threatening condition, if left untreated, gastritis can lead tore ulcers, an increased risk of developing stomach cancer, and other serious problems. The most common cause of gastritis is bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (Hp). This bacterium is present in the digestive tract of many people and usually doesn’t cause any harm. However, in some cases it can lead to gastritis.

The most common symptom of gastritis is a burning feeling in the upper abdomen. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, belching, and indigestion. The most common cause of gastritis is infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). However, other factors such as stress, alcohol use, certain medications, and autoimmune conditions can also contribute to gastritis. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the H. pylori infection and antacids or other medications to relieve symptoms. Symptoms of gastritis may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion. Treatment depends on the cause of gastritis and may include antibiotics, antacids, and dietary changes.

Treatment for gastritis may involve antibiotics if the cause is bacterial, or antacid medications to reduce stomach acidity. More severe cases may require hospitalization. Surgery is rarely needed but may be necessary if there is significant bleeding from the stomach. There are many different causes of gastritis, and the symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, the most common symptoms include pain or discomfort in the abdomen, nausea and vomiting, heartburn, and indigestion. Gastritis can also lead to ulcers in the stomach lining.

There are a number of different factors that can contribute to gastritis. These include infections (such as Helicobacter pylori), autoimmune conditions (such as Crohn's disease), stress, drinking too much alcohol, and taking certain medications (such as NSAIDs). Diagnosing gastritis requires a combination of medical history, physical examination, and testing (including blood tests and endoscopy). The inflammation can be caused by various factors, including damage to the stomach lining from excess acid production, infection, or autoimmune response. Common symptoms of gastritis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause of the inflammation but may include antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or deploy a barrier between the stomach lining and acid-producing cells.

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Air pollution

Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health: Risks, Effects and Prevention

Air pollution has become one of the most serious public health challenges worldwide. In India, rapid urbanisation, vehicle emissions, industrial activity and seasonal factors contribute to high pollution levels, especially in metropolitan cities. Understanding the impact of air pollution on human health is essential because exposure to polluted air significantly increases the risk of chronic illness and premature death.

According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is responsible for millions of premature deaths globally each year. Studies published in The Lancet highlight India as one of the countries most affected by air quality-related health burdens.

 

What Is Air Pollution?

Air pollution occurs when harmful substances such as:

  • particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)

  • nitrogen dioxide

  • sulfur dioxide

  • ozone

  • carbon monoxide

accumulate in the atmosphere at unsafe levels.

Among these, PM2.5 particles are particularly dangerous because they are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.

 

Respiratory Health Effects

The most immediate and visible impact of air pollution is on the lungs.

Short-Term Effects

  • coughing

  • throat irritation

  • wheezing

  • shortness of breath

Long-Term Effects

  • chronic bronchitis

  • asthma worsening

  • reduced lung capacity

  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Children and elderly individuals are especially vulnerable.

 

Impact on Heart Health

Air pollution does not only affect the lungs. Fine particles enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation.

Long-term exposure increases risk of:

  • hypertension

  • heart attack

  • stroke

  • atherosclerosis

ICMR reports show cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of mortality in India, with pollution being a significant contributing factor.

 

Impact on Immune System

Constant exposure to polluted air weakens the immune response.

This leads to:

  • frequent respiratory infections

  • slower recovery from illness

  • increased susceptibility to viral diseases

Pollution also increases systemic inflammation.

 

Effect on Children’s Health

Children are particularly vulnerable because:

  • their lungs are still developing

  • they breathe more air relative to body weight

  • they spend time outdoors

Long-term exposure may reduce lung growth and increase asthma risk.

 

Impact on Pregnant Women and Infants

Research published in Lancet indicates that high pollution exposure during pregnancy increases risk of:

  • low birth weight

  • premature birth

  • developmental complications

Protecting pregnant women from pollution exposure is critical.

 

Air Pollution and Cancer Risk

Prolonged exposure to air pollution increases the risk of lung cancer.

WHO classifies outdoor air pollution as a carcinogen.

 

Mental Health and Cognitive Impact

Emerging research suggests pollution may contribute to:

  • cognitive decline

  • mood disorders

  • reduced concentration

Clean air supports brain health.

 

Seasonal Pollution in India

During winter months, many cities experience severe smog due to:

  • crop burning

  • temperature inversion

  • increased emissions

Monitoring Air Quality Index (AQI) helps individuals take precautions.

 

Signs of Pollution-Related Health Impact

  • persistent cough

  • chest tightness

  • eye irritation

  • unusual fatigue

  • worsening asthma

Individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult healthcare providers.

 

Preventive Measures to Reduce Exposure

Monitor AQI

Avoid outdoor activities during high pollution days.

 

Use Protective Masks

N95 masks filter fine particles effectively.

 

Indoor Air Quality

Use air purifiers and keep windows closed during peak pollution.

 

Avoid High-Traffic Areas

Limit time near busy roads.

 

Maintain Healthy Lifestyle

Strong immunity helps reduce pollution-related health risks.

 

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Regular screening for:

  • lung function

  • blood pressure

  • heart health

helps detect early damage caused by pollution.

Urban populations should prioritise routine health checkups.

 

Long-Term Public Health Impact

Air pollution contributes significantly to:

  • healthcare burden

  • productivity loss

  • economic strain

Preventive awareness and environmental policies are essential.

 

Conclusion

The impact of air pollution on human health is profound and far-reaching. From respiratory disorders and heart disease to immune suppression and increased cancer risk, polluted air affects nearly every organ system. In India’s urban environment, proactive measures such as monitoring AQI, using protective masks and maintaining regular health screenings are crucial. Protecting oneself from air pollution is not just about comfort—it is a vital step in preserving long-term health and preventing chronic disease.

 

References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Air Pollution and Health Reports
  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Environmental Health Studies
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Respiratory and Cardiovascular Data
  • NITI Aayog – Environmental and Preventive Health Strategy Reports
  • Lancet – Global Burden of Disease and Air Pollution Research

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