An NHS doctor and former contestant on BBC's The Traitors has used a national television appearance to shed light on a painful and chronic digestive condition he describes as feeling like 'sunburn in your stomach'.
What is Gastritis? The 'Internal Sunburn' Explained
Dr Kasim Ahmed appeared on BBC Morning Live earlier this week to discuss gastritis. He clarified the difference between this condition and the more commonly known gastroenteritis, often called a stomach bug.
"Gastritis is basically inflammation of the stomach," Dr Ahmed stated. "It's actually chronic inflammation of the stomach." He went on to offer a vivid analogy to help viewers understand the sensation. "So, it's essentially like having sunburn. If you think about sunburn where your skin's exposed to the sun and then as a result of it, it breaks down and burns. It's essentially exactly the same thing, but inside your stomach."
He emphasised that this makes it a "really, really irritating" condition, exacerbated by the fact we constantly use our stomachs for food.
Key Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
While occasional bloating or indigestion can be normal, Dr Ahmed urged viewers to consult their GP if they experience frequent symptoms. Key signs that something may be irritating the stomach lining include:
- Persistent stomach pain
- Nausea
- Excessive burping and wind
He highlighted that diet plays a significant role, with common irritants being:
- Spicy foods
- Fizzy drinks
- High-fat fried foods
- Acidic juices
- Alcohol
Beyond Food: The Bacterial Cause and Finding Relief
Dr Ahmed pointed out a major non-dietary cause: a bacterial infection called helicobacter pylori. "It's a chronic infection that can affect people, it's actually surprisingly common," he explained. While often symptomless, as it breaks down the stomach's protective mucus lining, it can lead to severe gastritis.
For bacterial cases, a GP may prescribe antibiotics or other medication to reduce inflammation. For general management, Dr Ahmed suggested some foods might help soothe symptoms, such as:
- Bananas
- Yoghurt
- Oats
- High-fibre snacks
He cautioned that everyone is "slightly individual," so what works for one person may not suit another.
The NHS also recommends several lifestyle adjustments to manage gastritis:
- Reduce caffeine intake from tea, coffee, cola, and energy drinks.
- Prop your head and shoulders up with an extra pillow in bed to prevent acid reflux.
- Lose weight if you are overweight.
- Speak to your doctor if you regularly take anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin.
Left untreated, gastritis can worsen and lead to a stomach ulcer. The NHS advises that if symptoms are severe or not improving, a GP might refer you to a gastroenterologist for further investigation, potentially including a gastroscopy to look inside the stomach.
For comprehensive information on symptoms and treatment, visit the official NHS website.
