Antral gastritis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system. It causes a wide range of general symptoms, such as indigestion, gas, and nausea. It is more common in older adults, but anyone may be diagnosed with the condition. It is generally caused by a buildup of bacteria in the stomach, but it may also be caused by a viral infection, an injury to the stomach, extreme stress, or even some medications.
The symptoms of antral gastritis typically begin with inflammation in the lower part of the stomach called the antrum. This is the part of the stomach that releases stomach contents into the intestines. When the antrum of the stomach becomes inflamed, the affected individual may experience indigestion, nausea, and gas, among other general stomach discomforts.
The main symptom for this type of gastritis is indigestion. The inflammation of the stomach associated with the disorder affects digestion and the way that the contents of the stomach are emptied into the body’s intestines. When inflammation occurs, it can create a burning feeling in the stomach, or indigestion, due to the food not being properly digested.
Many affected individuals experience nausea as well. When the stomach lining becomes inflamed, a person usually becomes nauseous, even if there is not any food in his or her stomach. The nausea can be quite severe and may actually include small amounts of blood, if the condition is left untreated.
It is not unusual for a person affected by this condition to experience gas or even changes in his or her stool. Since the food in the stomach is not digested properly, it can cause a buildup of gases. The gases can cause flatulence, bloating, and general discomfort. It is possible for the stool to become dark and tar-like as well.
In order to determine the proper course of treatment from antral gastritis, it is important for a medical doctor to understand what is causing the problem. For example, if gastritis is caused by a bacterial infection, a medical doctor may treat the infection with antibiotics to prevent a recurrence of the disease. She may also prescribe antacids to reduce the symptoms until the bacteria are no longer causing inflammation.
Interestingly, many people do not realize that they are affected by antral gastritis until the condition becomes more severe. In most cases, people take over-the-counter antacids to reduce the symptoms. When they begin to have severe indigestion, gas, nausea, or dark, bloody stools, a doctor may become involved in the treatment of the disease. In addition, affected individuals may also be diagnosed when they have an endoscopic procedure for another health issue.