What are the classifications of chronic gastritis?
Chronic gastritis is a long-term, persistent inflammatory condition of the gastric mucosa. Depending on the nature and distribution of the inflammation, it can be classified into chronic superficial gastritis, chemical gastritis, atrophic gastritis, antral gastritis, and diffuse gastritis.
1. Chronic Superficial Gastritis
This type is usually caused by various factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, medication use, dietary habits, and alcohol consumption. It primarily affects the surface layer of the gastric mucosa, characterized by mild inflammation and epithelial cell changes in the mucosal surface. Symptoms may include belching and acid reflux.
2. Chemical Gastritis
This may result from direct contact of the gastric mucosa with chemical substances such as acids, alkalis, or alcohol, leading to mucosal damage and inflammatory response. Prolonged exposure to such irritants causes chronic inflammation, which may present with symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
3. Atrophic Gastritis
This may develop due to long-term effects of Helicobacter pylori infection, autoimmune reactions, or environmental factors, resulting in structural and functional changes in the gastric mucosa. These changes can impair food digestion, nutrient absorption, and gastric acid secretion, potentially causing symptoms such as bloating and postprandial fullness.
4. Antral Gastritis
This typically occurs after Helicobacter pylori infection in the gastric antrum, leading to chronic inflammation of the mucosa. The inflammation may cause congestion and edema in the antral region, commonly resulting in upper abdominal discomfort and a feeling of fullness.
5. Diffuse Gastritis
This may be caused by widespread inflammation of the gastric mucosa due to factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or alcohol consumption. Symptoms may include upper abdominal discomfort and a burning sensation in the stomach.
Patients with chronic gastritis should maintain healthy lifestyle and dietary habits in daily life, avoiding spicy, irritating, or hard-to-digest foods. If symptoms such as bloating or stomach pain occur, timely medical evaluation is necessary to determine the specific type of gastritis and receive appropriate treatment under medical guidance.