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Gastritis Specialist

Hal N Buch, MD Our Services Gastritis

Hal N Buch, MD

Gastroenterologists located in Kingston, NY

If symptoms of gastritis are uncomfortable and hinder your quality of life, you don’t have to suffer. At his self-titled practice in Kingston, New York, board-certified gastroenterologist Hal N Buch, MD, and Marisa Flanagan, FNP-BC, use advanced technology to test for and improve gastritis to give you the best digestive health and endoscopy services in the area. Call Dr. Buch’s office to learn more or book an appointment online today.

Gastritis Q & A

What is gastritis?

Gastritis occurs when the lining of your stomach becomes inflamed. It may happen suddenly or appear slowly over time, and last months or even years. Fortunately, in most cases, gastritis improves rapidly with the proper treatment.

What are the symptoms of gastritis?

If you have gastritis, you may notice the following symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain
  • Black stools

You might not experience symptoms at all, however, without proper treatment, complications of gastritis can include an increased risk of stomach cancer and ulcers.

What causes gastritis?

Some common causes of gastritis inflammation include:

  • Stomach infection due to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria
  • Regular use of pain relievers
  • Heavy alcohol consumption

Common pain relievers associated with gastritis are ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. Less common causes may stem from autoimmune disorders, bile reflux, drug abuse, extreme stress or trauma, major surgery, or a viral infection.

How is gastritis diagnosed?

The team may recommend certain tests to check for the presence of gastritis, including:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A complete blood count, or CBC, is a blood test that checks for anemia that may result from gastritis. If you have anemia, your provider may prescribe medications or vitamin supplements.

Endoscopy

Your doctor performs diagnostic endoscopies with state-of-the-art technology, including capsule endoscopies, to check for the presence of gastritis. Capsule endoscopies use a tiny wireless camera located inside a vitamin-sized capsule you swallow. The camera takes pictures as it travels through your digestive tract.

H. Pylori Tests

H. pylori tests determine whether gastritis is due to H. pylori bacterial infection. Your provider may recommend blood tests, breath tests, or stool tests to check for the presence of H. pylori. Stool tests also detect blood in your stool, which can be a sign of bleeding in your stomach.

What is the treatment for gastritis?

The best gastritis treatment for you depends on the exact cause of the condition. If heavy pain reliever use is the cause, your provider might recommend decreasing your dosage or switching to a different medication.

If you have an H. pylori bacterial infection, you might require antibiotics. Your doctor may recommend prescription or over-the-counter medications that decrease stomach acid – such as proton pump inhibitors, H2 antagonists, or antacids. Dietary strategies that often help ease symptoms include:

  • Avoid acidic, fatty, fried, and spicy foods
  • Eat small, more frequent meals
  • Abstain from alcohol

When you’re ready to find a solution to your digestive discomfort, call Dr. Buch’s office or book an appointment online today.