Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining, a protective barrier. Heartburn, on the other hand, describes a burning sensation in the chest.
Understanding Gastritis and Heartburn
Gastritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach’s inner lining, known as the mucosa. This inflammation can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or develop gradually and persist over time (chronic gastritis). Common causes include infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, regular use of certain pain relievers like NSAIDs, excessive alcohol consumption, and physiological stress.
Heartburn manifests as a burning discomfort in the chest, often originating in the stomach or lower chest and extending up towards the throat. It is a symptom of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle designed to keep stomach contents in place, relaxes at an inappropriate time.
How Gastritis Can Lead to Heartburn
While gastritis primarily affects the stomach lining, its presence can indirectly contribute to heartburn symptoms through several mechanisms. The inflamed stomach lining can become more sensitive to the stomach’s natural acid content, leading to a burning sensation even without significant acid reflux into the esophagus.
Gastritis can also impact the regulation of stomach acid production and gastric motility, which is the movement of food through the digestive tract. Certain forms of gastritis, such as those caused by H. pylori infection, can alter the balance of acid secretion, sometimes leading to increased acid production. Impaired stomach emptying, a consequence of altered motility, can also increase pressure within the stomach, making acid reflux into the esophagus more likely.
It is also common for the same underlying factors that cause gastritis to directly contribute to acid reflux or weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, thus leading to heartburn. For instance, H. pylori infection and the use of NSAIDs are known causes for both gastritis and issues like peptic ulcers or acid reflux. This complex interplay means that while gastritis itself might not always be the direct cause, it frequently co-occurs with conditions that result in heartburn.
Managing Symptoms and Seeking Medical Care
Managing symptoms of both gastritis and heartburn often involves lifestyle and dietary adjustments. Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, or acidic items, consuming smaller and more frequent meals, and refraining from lying down immediately after eating can help. Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and smoking can also reduce irritation and acid production. Over-the-counter antacids may offer temporary relief for heartburn symptoms.
Seeking professional medical care is important for an accurate diagnosis of persistent heartburn or gastritis. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms last longer than a week, worsen, or interfere with daily activities. Red flag symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention include severe abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or black, tarry stools.