Two weeks ago I had a camera down my throat to see what was causing my stomach pain and heartburn, they have just diagnosed me with chronic gastritis. This has upset me as I have absolutely no clue as to how I have got it, I was not on any harsh medication, didn't drink alcohol except once in a blue moon, and ate fairly well. The only explanation I can think of was a mental breakdown and severe anxiety last year, is it possible to get this from that? I still suffer from anxiety which I believe makes it worse, when I relax it eases the awful symptoms of acid burning, stomach pain and awful indigestion. Has anyone been at a loss as to how it has happened? Also will it ever go? I read it also can lead to gastric cancer, something else to worry about.
Sounds like anxiety was the trigger for your gastritis. Try distraction technques like light exercise or a hobby to take your mind off your stomach. Ask your doctor about relaxation therapy. Don’t worry about whether it will go away or lead to anything nasty. There is no point in worrying about something that hasn’t happened yet. Concentrate on managing your gastritis by eating blandly and avoiding fatty, rich and spicy foods. Keep a food diary to uncover your food triggers. If your gastritis is chronic, it sounds like it is long term but you can treat it by diet, taking a PPI to protect your stomach lining and drinking milk and trying to stay as calm as possible. I have IBS snd chronic acid reflux, but neither of them worry me because medication and avoiding stressful situations keep my symptoms at bay. Stress was my trigger too so I know that is the thing I have to be careful with.
Thank you Pippa, I'm just feeling a bit fragile as I wasn't expecting this diagnosis just thought it would be good old fashioned reflux /ibs. I'm going to take your advice and try to relax and eat simple plain meals. I'm going to speak to my doctor on Friday and see what she says about the diagnosis.
Good luck.