Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. While often linked to factors like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or Helicobacter pylori bacteria, parasitic infections can also contribute to this inflammation. These less common causes can lead to stomach irritation and require specific management.
How Parasites Trigger Gastritis
Parasites can induce gastritis through direct and indirect mechanisms that harm the stomach lining. Some physically invade the mucosal barrier, the protective layer lining the stomach, causing direct tissue damage. This can lead to erosions or ulcers on the stomach wall.
The presence of parasites triggers an inflammatory response as the body’s immune system attempts to eliminate the invaders. This immune reaction releases inflammatory chemicals, which can inadvertently damage the surrounding stomach tissue. Parasites might also compete for nutrients or disrupt the normal functioning of the stomach’s protective systems. A sustained immune overreaction to the parasitic presence can lead to chronic inflammation, contributing to long-term gastritis.
Key Parasites Linked to Gastritis
Several specific parasitic organisms cause gastritis. Anisakis simplex, a nematode (roundworm) found in raw or undercooked fish and seafood, can cause acute gastritis. When consumed, its larvae burrow into the stomach lining, leading to sudden and severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. This condition, known as anisakiasis, often presents shortly after eating contaminated seafood.
Strongyloides stercoralis, a type of roundworm, can cause chronic gastritis, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. This parasite has a complex life cycle that can involve larvae penetrating the skin and migrating through the body, eventually reaching the intestines. While primarily associated with intestinal issues, its presence can lead to persistent inflammation that affects the stomach lining over time.
Giardia lamblia, a microscopic protozoan, can sometimes extend its effects to the stomach, contributing to gastritis symptoms. This parasite is commonly acquired through contaminated water or food.
Cryptosporidium parvum, another protozoan, can also cause gastritis, especially in individuals who are immunocompromised. This waterborne parasite is notably resistant to chlorine and can be found in contaminated water sources.
Recognizing and Diagnosing Parasitic Gastritis
Recognizing parasitic gastritis involves observing symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, bloating, and a feeling of fullness after eating. Symptoms may be more persistent or severe, or accompanied by other signs of parasitic infection, such as unexplained weight loss or changes in bowel habits.
Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history, including travel and dietary habits. Key diagnostic methods include endoscopy with biopsy, where a thin tube with a camera visualizes the stomach lining and collects tissue samples. This allows for direct identification of parasites or the characteristic inflammation they cause.
Stool tests, specifically an ova and parasite (O&P) test, look for parasite eggs or the parasites themselves in stool samples, though these are more definitive for intestinal parasites. Blood tests may reveal an elevated count of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell often increased during parasitic infections, or specific antibodies against certain parasites.
Addressing and Preventing Parasitic Gastritis
Treatment for parasitic gastritis focuses on eliminating the specific parasite responsible for the inflammation. This typically involves prescription anti-parasitic medications tailored to the identified organism. A healthcare professional determines the most appropriate medication and dosage based on the type of parasite and the patient’s overall health. Managing symptoms, such as stomach pain and nausea, may also be part of the treatment plan.
Preventing parasitic gastritis involves practicing good hygiene and ensuring food and water safety. Thoroughly cooking meat and fish to the recommended internal temperatures can kill parasites like Anisakis simplex. Avoiding raw or undercooked seafood is a significant preventive measure. Drinking safe water is crucial; this includes consuming treated municipal water, using bottled water when unsure of water quality, and boiling water from potentially contaminated sources. Good personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food, helps prevent the spread of parasites.