Glossary On Diagnosis of Gastritis

Detect that dyspepsia…

The first thing that will tell your physician ‘It’s probably gastritis’ is your medical history, lifestyle and the medicines you are taking. Further, investigations are required to confirm the diagnosis but some tests may even be performed to rule out any other conditions that may mimic gastritis:

• Blood cell count (to rule out anemia due to occult bleeding)
• Breath test for H. pylori test
• Stool test (for blood in stools)
• Gastrointestinal endoscopy: In this test the doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) with a tiny camera at one end into your stomach and upper part of intestine to visualize any inflammation or ulceration. If any part is found suspicious, the doctor may take a small biopsy from the same.
• Barium meal: The patient is asked to drink a fluid containing barium and thereafter X-rays are taken to detect any abnormalities in the stomach.