Understanding Unresolved Gastritis Despite Medications
I am an 18-year-old male who does not smoke, consume alcohol, or use recreational drugs. At present, I am taking Famotidine at a dosage of 80mg daily, having previously been treated with Omeprazole at 40mg each day for several months. Approximately six months ago, I underwent an endoscopy that revealed I have non-erosive gastritis. Since that time, I’ve been following the prescribed medication regimen. I am scheduled for another endoscopy soon and anticipate that the results will still indicate non-erosive gastritis, as I continue to experience discomfort when pressing on my upper abdomen along with bouts of nausea. If my condition remains unchanged, what might be the underlying cause? Additionally, I want to emphasize that my diet is quite bland; I avoid alcohol, spicy meals, and my H. Pylori test conducted during the endoscopy came back negative.
Answers (1)
7/4/2025, 10:10:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're actively managing an ongoing issue with non-erosive gastritis, and it's understandable to feel frustrated when symptoms persist despite medication.
Key Points:
- Non-erosive gastritis can be caused or worsened by factors beyond just diet and medication, including stress, certain medications, or underlying health conditions.
- While you have been adhering to a bland diet and avoiding triggers like alcohol and spicy foods, other contributors to your symptoms may still be at play.
Explanation: Non-erosive gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining without erosions or ulcers. Since you have already had a negative H. pylori test and are consistently on medication, some other potential reasons for your ongoing discomfort could include:
- Acid Production: Even with medications like Famotidine (which reduces acid production), your body may still produce excess acid, leading to discomfort.
- Dietary Factors: Some foods, even if they seem bland, can still irritate the stomach lining. Consider foods high in acidity or certain fibers.
- Stress Levels: Emotional stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health, potentially exacerbating symptoms.
- Medications: If you are taking any other medications (even over-the-counter ones), they could contribute to your gastritis.
- Underlying Conditions: Conditions like autoimmune disorders or food intolerances (e.g., lactose or gluten sensitivity) might also be influencing your symptoms.
Next Steps:
- Keep a Symptom Diary: Note what you eat, any stressors, and your symptoms to identify any potential triggers or patterns.
- Review Medications: Double-check with a pharmacist or healthcare provider about any other medications that could irritate your stomach.
- Stay Hydrated & Modify Diet: Continue with your bland diet, but consider tracking reactions to various foods to find any specific irritants. Focus on hydration with non-citrus fluids.
- Monitor Stress Levels: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, or gentle exercise.
- Follow-up: Prepare for your upcoming endoscopy by discussing all these concerns with your healthcare provider to better understand potential next steps if results show unchanged gastritis.
Please remember, continuity is key in managing conditions like yours. Keeping an open dialogue with health professionals and staying attuned to changes in your body will empower you in this process.
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