Acute Gastritis in Children: Key Information for Parents Acute gastritis is the sudden inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infections, certain medications, or food irritants. It can lead to discomfort and digestive issues, but with proper care, it is usually temporary.
1. What is Acute Gastritis? Acute gastritis occurs when the stomach lining becomes irritated or inflamed, leading to symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. It can result from infections (such as H. pylori), excessive use of NSAIDs, or spicy and fatty foods.
2. Symptoms to Watch For Common symptoms in children include: Stomach pain or cramping Nausea and vomiting Loss of appetite Bloating or gas Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest Vomiting blood (in severe cases)
3. Causes of Acute Gastritis Triggers can include: Infections (like viral or bacterial infections) Medications (NSAIDs or aspirin) Stress or spicy foods
4. Home Care Tips For mild cases: Hydration: Ensure your child stays hydrated, especially if they’re vomiting. Diet Adjustments: Offer bland foods like rice, bananas, or toast. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. Medications: Use prescribed antacids or stomach protectants if advised by a doctor.
5. When to Seek Medical Help Seek medical care if symptoms worsen, if your child vomits blood, or experiences severe abdominal pain or dehydration. Prevent acute gastritis by limiting NSAID use and maintaining a balanced diet.