There are a number of gastrointestinal and digestive disorders that can lead to various complications. While some conditions can be identified instantly due to their distinct symptoms, a few can overlap with other stomach-related issues, causing confusion and delayed diagnosis. This is true in the case of gastritis and acid reflux, both of which can lead to burning, bloating, and stomach-ache.
Talking to the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Akash Chaudhary, Clinical Director and Senior Consultant-Medical Gastroenterology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, helps differentiate between the two and shares ways to treat both conditions.
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Gastritis Vs. Acid Reflux
Gastritis is a condition that leads to inflammation of the stomach lining, whereas acid reflux, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and other related symptoms.
Dr Chaudhary says that the most common causes of gastritis include infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, long-term use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and autoimmune reactions.
According to StatPearls Publishing, chronic atrophic gastritis is estimated to affect approximately 25% of the global general population, and the risk of developing chronic atrophic gastritis is about 2.4 times higher in individuals infected with H. pylori.
On the other hand, acid reflux occurs when the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) weakens or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus. This can happen due to factors, such as obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, smoking, and certain dietary habits.
Similarities Between Gastritis And Acid Reflux
Symptoms of gastritis and acid reflux can overlap, making it challenging to differentiate between the two conditions, says Dr Chaudhary, adding that both conditions involve inflammation of the stomach lining and therefore share some common symptoms, including:
- Heartburn or burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen
- Feelings of nausea or an upset stomach
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the stomach
How To Differentiate Between the Two?
If you only focus on the symptoms, it may be difficult to differentiate between gastritis and acid reflux. Here’s what to look out for:
Location of pain: Gastritis typically causes pain in the upper central region of the abdomen, while acid reflux often leads to pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen.
Triggers: Gastritis symptoms may be triggered by the consumption of irritating substances, such as alcohol, certain medications, or spicy foods. Acid reflux symptoms, on the other hand, are often exacerbated by lying down or bending over after eating.
Additional symptoms: Gastritis may be associated with symptoms like vomiting, whereas acid reflux may cause regurgitation of stomach acid into the throat, leading to a sour taste.
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Treatment Approaches
For gastritis, treatment usually involves addressing the underlying cause, according to Dr Chaudhary.
“If H. pylori infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed.
“Avoiding irritants like NSAIDs and alcohol, as well as adopting a stomach-friendly diet, can help manage symptoms.
“Antacids or Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) may be recommended to reduce stomach acid,” he adds.
For acid reflux, the doctor recommends lifestyle modifications, including weight loss, avoiding large meals before bedtime, elevating the head of the bed, and avoiding trigger foods.
“Medications, such as antacids, H2 blockers, or PPIs may be prescribed to reduce acid production,” he shares.
Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is important for proper management.