Alcoholic gastritis digital illustration

Alcoholic gastritis Save


ICD-10 code: K29.2

Chapter: Diseases of the digestive system

Understanding Alcoholic Gastritis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Alcoholic gastritis is a condition that occurs when excessive alcohol consumption inflames the stomach lining. It is a common problem among heavy drinkers, and it can lead to various complications if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of alcoholic gastritis.

  1. Symptoms of Alcoholic Gastritis
  2. The most common symptoms of alcoholic gastritis include:

    • Abdominal pain or discomfort
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Bloating and indigestion
    • Loss of appetite
    • Black, tarry stools
    • Vomiting blood
  3. Causes of Alcoholic Gastritis
  4. Excessive alcohol consumption is the primary cause of alcoholic gastritis. Alcohol irritates the stomach lining, leading to inflammation and damage. Other factors that can contribute to alcoholic gastritis include:

    • Chronic stress
    • Smoking
    • Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
    • Helicobacter pylori infection
    • Autoimmune disorders
  5. Treatment of Alcoholic Gastritis
  6. The treatment of alcoholic gastritis involves addressing the underlying cause and relieving the symptoms. This may include:

    • Abstinence from alcohol
    • Medications to reduce stomach acid and inflammation
    • Antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection
    • Dietary changes, such as avoiding spicy, fatty, and acidic foods
    • Stress management techniques, such as meditation and yoga
  7. Prevention of Alcoholic Gastritis
  8. The best way to prevent alcoholic gastritis is to limit alcohol consumption. For men, this means no more than two drinks per day, and for women, no more than one drink per day. Other tips for preventing alcoholic gastritis include: