Unconscious Use of Painkillers Threatens the Stomach

Stating that overuse of painkillers can lead to stomach ulcers, Gastroenterology Specialist Dr. Nurettin Coşkun said, "Painkillers can sometimes be used more than necessary. Taking a painkiller every time pain is felt can lead to problems ranging from stomach irritation to even stomach ulcers."
Drawing attention to the importance of dietary habits in gastritis and reflux, Dr. Nurettin Coşkun, Gastroenterology Specialist at Yeditepe University Koşuyolu Hospital, stated: "There are important points to consider regarding nutrition. Instead of filling the stomach excessively with few meals, eating more frequent and smaller portions can help reduce symptoms. One of the common mistakes in society is eating late at night. It is necessary to stop eating at least 3–4 hours before going to bed."

What Is the Difference Between Gastritis and Reflux?

The question "Are gastritis and reflux the same thing?" is one of the frequently asked questions among the public. Stating that gastritis and reflux are different diseases, Dr. Nurettin Coşkun said: "Gastritis and reflux are different diseases. The actual name for reflux is gastroesophageal reflux. Gastritis is the name we give to inflammation of the stomach lining. In other words, the stomach mucosa becomes pathologically inflamed, and we diagnose this endoscopically. Reflux, on the other hand, is the name given to the complaints that arise when stomach contents, acid, or food leak back into the esophagus."
Stating that gastritis and reflux are generally associated with lifestyle and dietary errors, Dr. Coşkun said: "When we look at the differences between the two; in gastritis, we see complaints such as heartburn and stomach pain. In reflux, the patient feels a burning sensation in the upper area, in the esophagus and chest region. Gastritis and reflux usually arise from dietary mistakes and lifestyle-related causes. In gastritis, symptoms such as heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting may be seen. In reflux, the burning sensation in the esophagus and chest area is predominant. In addition, symptoms such as cough and a tickling feeling in the throat may also be observed."

What Are the Symptoms of Gastritis and Reflux?

Emphasizing the importance of alarm symptoms, Dr. Coşkun said: "In some cases, patients must definitely see a doctor. We call these alarm symptoms. Difficulty swallowing, which we call dysphagia, feeling resistance while eating, weight loss, night sweats, iron deficiency anemia, and the onset of these complaints especially after the age of 45 are among the alarm symptoms. In these situations, evaluation by a specialist is absolutely necessary."

How Should Patients with Gastritis and Reflux Eat?

Drawing attention to the importance of dietary habits, Dr. Coşkun said: "There are also important points to consider regarding nutrition. Instead of overfilling the stomach with few meals, eating more frequent and smaller portions can help reduce symptoms. One of the common mistakes in society is eating late at night. It is necessary to stop eating at least 3–4 hours before going to bed."

What Is Good for Reflux?

Stating that lifestyle modifications are effective in reflux patients, Dr. Coşkun said: "Measures such as elevating the head of the bed or sleeping with two pillows can be beneficial for patients with reflux symptoms. Additionally, avoiding stress, maintaining a regular lifestyle, exercising, and eating healthily also contribute to keeping complaints under control."

Do Painkillers Help Gastritis?

Drawing attention to the use of painkillers, Dr. Coşkun said: "Certain medications used in gastritis patients should also be noted. Painkillers in particular can sometimes be used more than necessary. Taking a painkiller every time pain is felt can lead to problems ranging from stomach irritation to even stomach ulcers."

At What Age Does Gastritis and Reflux Occur?

Stating that gastritis and reflux can occur at any age, Dr. Coşkun said: "Reflux and gastritis are diseases that can be seen at any age. However, complaints such as sudden-onset reflux, stomach pain, or heartburn, especially after the age of 45, should be taken more seriously and definitely evaluated."