What causes gastric erosion?

In general, gastric erosion may be caused by factors such as stress, alcohol consumption and smoking, gastroesophageal reflux, Helicobacter pylori infection, and gastritis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Stress and Psychological Strain

Under conditions of stress and strain, the body releases large amounts of adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones stimulate gastric acid secretion and disrupt the stomach's natural mucosal defense mechanisms, potentially leading to gastric erosion. Special treatment is usually not required; instead, lifestyle modifications such as increasing physical activity or practicing relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing may be beneficial.

2. Alcohol Consumption and Smoking

Alcohol directly irritates the gastric mucosa and compromises its protective barrier function. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gastric mucosa and impairs its self-repair capacity. The combined effects of these habits increase the risk of developing gastric erosion. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake are important for maintaining healthy gastric function.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux may result from poor lifestyle habits or esophageal dysfunction. The backflow of gastric acid and bile into the esophagus can also damage the gastric mucosa, causing gastric erosion. Symptoms may include chest pain, acid regurgitation, and belching. Treatment may include medications such as cisapride tablets, enteric-coated rabeprazole sodium tablets, or enteric-coated lansoprazole tablets, as prescribed by a doctor.

4. Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori infection may arise due to poor hygiene or immune system responses. This bacterium produces urease, which breaks down urea in the stomach to produce ammonia, damaging the gastric mucosa and triggering gastritis and gastric erosion. Symptoms may include stomach pain, bloating, acid regurgitation, and belching. Treatment may involve medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, clarithromycin sustained-release tablets, and amoxicillin capsules, taken under medical supervision.

5. Gastritis

Gastritis may be caused by improper diet or bacterial infections. During gastritis, gastric acid secretion may increase and pepsin activity may become heightened. Excess gastric acid and pepsin can directly damage the gastric mucosa, resulting in inflammation and erosion. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. Medications such as famotidine tablets, itopride hydrochloride tablets, and enteric-coated pantoprazole sodium tablets may be used as directed by a physician.

In daily life, attention should be paid to dietary management, including consuming nutritious and easily digestible foods. Regular follow-up examinations are also recommended to monitor changes in one's condition promptly.