Gastritis in New Jersey
Gastritis is common in adults and children. The Digestive Health & Nutrition Center has two convenient locations Lawrenceville and Princeton, New Jersey where you can receive the exceptional care you deserve. Dr. Angela Merlo is an experienced Gastroenterologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of gastritis in adults and children.
What is Gastritis?
Gastritis means inflammation with injury to the lining of the stomach. This strict definition requires microscopic analysis of biopsies. However, the term Gastritis is commonly applied to any injury to the lining of the stomach whether or not inflammation is present. Gastroenterologists use Gastritis to describe changes to the stomach lining that are visualized during upper endoscopy. Gastritis may last only a short time or be more chronic and lead to serious consequences such as iron deficiency or vitamin B12 deficiency from malabsorption.
What Causes Gastritis?
The most common causes of Gastritis are:
- Helicobacter pylori bacterium that infects the stomach’s mucosal lining
- Alcohol consumption
- Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen
- Stress
- Serious or life-threatening illnesses
- Immune system disorders
Signs & Symptoms of Gastritis
Some individuals with Gastritis do not experience symptoms. When present common symptoms are:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite or feeling full after eating very little
- Nausea and or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Unintentional weight loss
These symptoms indicate the need for an evaluation by a specialist in Gastroenterology for accurate diagnosis so that health can be restored with proper treatment.
What is the Treatment for Gastritis?
Treatment for Gastritis depends on the cause. Helicobacter pylori infection is treated with antibiotics. Lifestyle changes are important to reduce gastric irritants such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, alcohol and tobacco. Iron and vitamin B12 supplements are necessary when deficiencies are detected. Medication to block the effects of acid or suppress acid production may be required.
If you have concerns you may have Gastritis contact the Digestive Health & Nutrition Center for an appointment with Dr. Merlo in Lawrenceville or Princeton, New Jersey. Dr. Merlo is an experienced Gastroenterologist with expertise in the care of adults and children with Gastritis.
