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DIGESTIVE SERVICES

Diagnosis & Treatment

Gastritis

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How is Gastritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis

Gastritis symptoms can resemble other conditions, so it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis from your healthcare provider. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and your health history and will perform a physical exam.

Additional tests to diagnose gastritis may include:

  • Breath test to look for H. pylori bacteria
  • Stool test to check for H. pylori bacteria and blood
  • Blood tests to check for anemia (low red blood cell count)
  • Barium swallow (upper gastrointestinal exam), a type of X-ray that checks the esophagus, stomach, and part of the small intestine. Swallowing liquid barium before the X-ray gives a clearer picture.
  • Upper endoscopy allows the doctor to see the inside lining of the esophagus and stomach by inserting a thin tube with a light and a camera. A small sample of tissue (biopsy) may be taken.

How is Gastritis Treated?

Treatment

Treatment for gastritis varies depending on the cause and how severe it is. For occasional discomfort from gastritis, home treatment may be enough—over-the-counter antacids and avoiding food and drinks that irritate the stomach or increase stomach acid.

If gastritis is more severe or keeps coming back, your doctor may recommend:

  • Medicines to reduce acid in the stomach and soothe irritation, such as antacids, H2 receptor antagonists like famotidine, cimetidine, and nizatidine; or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole or esomeprazole
  • Antibiotics for bacterial infection with H. pylori, in most cases more than one antibiotic, along with a proton pump inhibitor to reduce acid in the stomach
  • Treatment for other illness or infection that is causing gastritis

FAQs

FAQs

Gastritis itself is not contagious, but bacteria that cause gastritis can spread. Frequent handwashing and adequate sewer and water systems help prevent the spread of H. pylori bacteria, which cause gastritis.

Gastritis is different from person to person. It can last briefly (acute gastritis) or continue for months or even years (chronic gastritis).

A bland, low-fat diet is recommended for gastritis, including lean poultry, eggs, low-fat milk, and dairy products, fruits and vegetables, bread, crackers and pasta, and clear soups.

Get Care

Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Gastritis Treatment

For gastritis symptoms, schedule an appointment at NewYork-Presbyterian with a primary care doctor or a digestive care specialist. Knowing gastritis symptoms is important for getting appropriate treatment and avoiding more serious illnesses.