Acid Reflux vs. Gastritis: Key Differences, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

If you have ever had to deal with a burning sensation in your stomach or chest, then you know just how unpleasant it can feel. This is actually a pretty common symptom with a few different conditions like acid reflux, gastritis, GERD, etc. So, how do you know which is what, based on just this symptom? Let us learn how to differentiate between them and also see when to consult the best stomach pain & acidity clinic in Balanagar and Bowenpally, if you live in Hyderabad.

Acid Reflux vs. Gastritis 

Let us first look at what both of these conditions are, one by one-

Acid reflux

It is a well known fact that the stomach produces highly potent and corrosive acid and gastric juices which work to break food down and kill any pathogens which may enter the body via food sources. There are muscles or sphincters at the top and bottom of the stomach- so that food moves in a particular direction. When the acid flows up into the oesophagus, you feel it burning at the back of your throat and in your chest- this can happen if too much acid is produced or if the sphincters don’t work normally. 

Acid reflux can evolve to a more severe form called GERD and cause regurgitation, severe heartburn or make it hard for you to swallow too, in rare cases. 

Gastritis

The stomach has a thick lining made of mucus which protects it from the acid, produced by mucosal cells. When this inner lining gets inflamed- it is called gastritis. It can be caused by a bacterial infection, taking medications which can irritate the lining or drinking too much – and it can cause severe bloating and nausea. 

Both of these conditions are incredibly common in India and all over the world and they can affect you and become chronic occurrences when you make poor dietary and lifestyle choices on a regular basis.

Spotting the Differences Between Acid Reflux and Gastritis

Both conditions will cause similar symptoms but if you pay close attention, you can differentiate between them-

Acid reflux normally means you may have these symptoms- 

• Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest
• You may not be able to swallow food 
• You may notice regurgitation- where food or juices come to the throat. 
• You may feel like there is something closing your throat off – globus sensation
• Water brash- where you feel a rush of bitter or sour saliva in your mouth, leaving you feeling thirsty or a salty feeling in its wake. 
• Important- Most of your discomfort is centered around the chest. You feel worse when you lie down or don’t eat on time. 

Gastritis can cause-

• Excessive bloating 
• Severe nausea
• Poor appetite because you feel really full with very little food. 
• Abdominal pain which can be episodic and severe in nature. 
• Important- The upper abdomen is irritated or there is pain there. You may feel better when you eat but the pain comes back afterwards. 

If you are not sure of your symptoms or their severity, don’t worry. Walk into Medone Hospitals today, as we provide the best acid reflux treatment in Kompally Hyderabad and gastritis treatment in Suchitra and Jeedimetla, if you live anywhere in the city. 

Treatment Approaches for Gastritis and Acid Reflux

With acid reflux, you should eat meals on time, eat dinner at least 3 hours before bedtime, prop an extra pillow when sleeping and not eat foods rich in oil, fat, too much caffeine or acidic ones which can worsen symptoms. Proton pump inhibitors or related medications can help reduce the amount of stomach acid being produced and relieve symptoms. 

For gastritis- You can avoid foods that are triggers and take medications as prescribed. Antibiotics are given if you have a helicobacter pylori infection. 

Conclusion

With any digestive conditions like these, it is important to eat properly designed meals and avoid eating too much. You can try to eat meals on time and include foods which are low on fat, spice and caffeine or other acidic substances. You can also limit alcohol intake and stop using NSAID painkillers long term. Try to manage stress levels too, even if the direct link has not been well established. If you have any other concerns or would like to learn more about gastritis, acid reflux or other digestive conditions, talk to our specialist at Medone Hospitals today! 

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