What is Gastritis?
Everyone experiences stomach discomfort from time to time.
Stomach irritation caused by inflammation in the stomach’s lining is known as gastritis. Usually, it doesn’t last long and there’s no need to see a doctor for them. But, sometimes the condition lasts for a long time or recurs frequently. When that happens, it is called chronic gastritis and medical intervention may be needed.
Home Health Care in Villa Hills KY: What is Gastritis?
About Gastritis
Chronic gastritis usually occurs as a result of damage to the stomach’s lining. Gastritis is sometimes a complication of another condition, such as Crohn’s disease or sarcoidosis. It is a very common chronic condition. In fact, it can last for years if your aging relative doesn’t receive medical treatment. Often the condition can be treated simply by the older adult making some changes to their lifestyle. However, in more severe cases, the condition cannot be cured and doctor’s focus on keep symptoms at bay.
Sometimes gastritis causes breaks in the lining of the stomach. When the breaks are shallow, they are called erosions. Deeper sores are called ulcers.
Gastritis Risk Factors
There are several factors that can make it more likely for people to develop gastritis. Some of the risk factors are:
Age: The elderly are at a greater risk for developing gastritis because the stomach lining usually gets thinner as people age. In addition, seniors are more likely to have certain stomach infections and autoimmune disorders.
Bacterial Infection: A bacteria called Helicobacter pylori can infect the stomach and lead to gastritis. The infection is quite common, but some people are more susceptible to it because of their lifestyle or hereditary factors.
Use of Pain Relievers: If your aging relative uses over-the-counter painkillers frequently, it can damage the stomach’s lining, leading to gastritis.
Alcohol Use: Excessive drinking irritates and damages the stomach’s lining.
Gastritis Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of gastritis in your aging relative can help you determine if it is time to see a doctor. Symptoms of gastritis are:
- Indigestion in the upper part of the abdomen, which might feel like burning or gnawing pain.
- Vomiting.
- Nausea.
- Feeling full in the upper part of the abdomen after eating.
- If the senior complains of these symptoms for a week or longer, talk to their doctor.
Home care can assist older adults who suffer from chronic gastritis.
The condition is often treated with medications. A home care provider can remind the senior to take the medication as directed by the doctor. There are also lifestyle changes that can relieve gastritis, such as eating smaller meals several times each day that don’t include foods that irritate the stomach. A home care provider can prepare meals and snacks that are easier on the stomach and offer small amounts for them to eat throughout the day.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Health Care in Villa Hills, KY, please contact the caring staff at Queen City Elder Care today. Serving Cincinnati and Surrounding Communities. Call Us Today (513) 510-4410.
Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
Michele Vollmer is a visionary leader who is perpetually searching for ways to improve, so to remain at the leading edge of the home care industry.She has served in the healthcare industry since 1989, including pharmaceutical and home health sales, as well as hospice sales and sales management.
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