Gastritis: A Clinical Evaluation is Probably the Most Important Part in the Diagnostic Evaluation

A clinical evaluation by a qualified practitioner is probably the most important part in any diagnostic process. The indicators below are points of consideration for your physician in determining the possibility of gastritis, ulcers, or other causes for GI Bleeding.

Age

Age is associated with many of the auto-immune disorders which cause GI Bleeding and/or gastritis. Additionally, older people are much more likely to take NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, such as motrin), for their various aches and pains, or chronic diseases.

Previous Ulcer

A history of an ulcer or an ulcer complication have been identified in several studies as risk factors for complications due to aspirin or NSAID use.

Alcohol

Excessive alcohol use can irritate the lining of the stomach or GI tract. Sometimes, if one is taking other substances which increase one's risk factors, the amount of alcohol does not have to be excessive. Therefore, your physician should ask you questions about your use, quantity, and frequency at every clinic visit. The patient needs to assume a responsible approach through honesty and offering complete information, if this portion of the physical exam is to be a valid or helpful approach to the patient.

As other drugs, particularly the NSAIDs, such as motrin, aleve, ibuprofen) are one of the categoires of drugs which can act synergestically to contribute to risk factors for gastritis/ulcers; the Advisory committee to the FDA has made a strong recommendation that these OTC medications specify alcohol interactions.

Steroids

A seven fold increase of GI Bleeding exists for those patients who take NSAIDs with a prescription corticosteroid medication. Luckily, unlike most NSAIDs which are over the counter, cortisones must be prescribed. Therefore, the physician can monitor for adverse effects. Again, the patient's honesty in providing NSAID use is invaluable to the patient's over all health.

Anticoagulants

Similarly, a twelve fold increased risk of bleeding exists with patients who are on anti-coagulants such as coumadin, and take NSAIDs.

blood tests

A complete blood count may indicate the presence of bleeding. This is an especially important factor in very slow and gradual blood loss which the patient may not notice.