Thanks

[Guest guest]

Thanks Parry,

On 10/26/07, parry boparai <parry1412@...> wrote:

dearest members,

i want to thank you all for bringing brightness and cheerfulness in my life.Your meaningfull articles keep me happy throughout the day.thank you all and especially Mr ganesh & Mr sunny nagpal.

Unlimited freedom, unlimited storage.

Get it now

-- ! Jai Gurudev !

[Guest guest]

very thankful for ur love+appreciation+sweet gesture.....GOD BLESS U all.. THANKU GOD.Ganesh *** <Kriyababa1@...> wrote: Thanks Parry, On 10/26/07, parry boparai <parry1412 (DOT) co.in> wrote: dearest members, i want to thank you all for bringing

brightness and cheerfulness in my life.Your meaningfull articles keep me happy throughout the day.thank you all and especially Mr ganesh & Mr sunny nagpal. Unlimited freedom, unlimited storage. Get it now -- ! Jai Gurudev ! Whatever U r, B a GUD1 - Abrham Lincoln.Keep Smiling inspite of Everything - Gurudev.

Find a mall, hotel or ATM in any part of India. Click here.

[Guest guest]

Your welcome and I wish you the best of luck with your surgery. I hope

you get some good ideas on what to bring to the hospital. I can't seem

to think of anything right now. keep us posted and take care,

[Guest guest]

Your welcome and I wish you the best of luck with your surgery. I hope

you get some good ideas on what to bring to the hospital. I can't seem

to think of anything right now. keep us posted and take care,

[Guest guest]

Good for you Chris. You owe it to yourself to get all the information you can

and to be well informed. This is a very big deal and will make a difference in

your life either way you decide. I had an advocate who is a retired scoliosis

specialist and friend of our family. He said I " had " to get the surgery done and

couldn't wait one more year. My son tried to talk me out of it, as did several

friends. But I trusted the one with the most knowledge and he was right. He

referred me to the best doctor that he could find and that doctor agreed to take

my case. The first couple of months were tough, no doubt about it. But after six

months, I was out of my brace and starting to look forward to summer. By summer

time, I was hiking again.

You have a good support group here and we'll be with you in spirit and with

words of encouragement along the way. Please keep in touch with us.

Patti

Thanks

You guys have really made me rethink things also, I will check to see

if my local library has those books. Thanks for all the responces and

helping me get through this.

[Guest guest]

Dear Dr. Trupti

Congratulations for moderating the vital but a lengthy

and multidimensional topic efficiently. Everybody

syrely learnt a lot. Thanks for kind words of

appreciation of my ppt. presentation. I believe

knowledge is one of the rare thing which increases on

sharing.

Best wishes for 2008.

Have a great day!

mahadev

--- Trupti Swain <drtruptiswain@...> wrote:

> Dear Friends,

>

> I am really thankful to you for your active

> participation and cooperation in this

> discussion.Bhava Narayana, Dr Vijay & Anupama needs

> special mention for their valuable input. I am

> really grateful to Dr Mahadev Desai for his expert

> opinion. The power point presentation which he

> provided to us, is one of the finest of its kind .He

> has highlighted very fundamental principles of

> “Rational use of Antimicrobials” from a Clinician

> prospective.

>

> Thank you all again. Wish you all Happy New year

> 2008

>

> Trupti Swain

> Orissa

>

>

> ---------------------------------

> Never miss a thing. Make your homepage.

mahadev desai

208,Harikrupa Tower, Ellisbridge,Ahmedabad 380006

e-mail address :mahadevdesai@...

Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.

[Guest guest]

>

> Thank you to everyone for their feedback. I read the messages

before I

> went to my PT appoinment today and they gave me little more courage

> to 'put my foot down' and say I'm not doing anything until I have

an x-

> ray and MRI. But thanks to the holidays, I have to wait a week for

my

> therapist to read it. Oh well. I had my x-rays done laying down

this

> time. At the time of the accident they MADE me stand-up, I actually

> had to have them hold me up because my muscles were in shock. Does

> anyone know or have experienced a problem with x-rays diagnosis.

Like

> laying down it might show nothing wrong, but standing up tells a

whole

> different story? I just want to be armed with knowledge when I see

my

> therapist again. Oh! and, yes I did go to the emergency room when

my

> feet started going numb. They told me they could only give me pain

> meds and my family practice doctor would have to figure out what's

> wrong with me.

>

When i went to my family doctor with my back problem,he said noway do

xrays show anything major. only way to know for sure was an mri...he

had my appt with the neurosurgeon within a week and my mri 3 days

later.the neuro surgeon said same thing. if xrays were taken first it

wouldnt have shown any problem but the mri did.always ask for an mri!

[Guest guest]

>

> Thank you to everyone for their feedback. I read the messages

before I

> went to my PT appoinment today and they gave me little more courage

> to 'put my foot down' and say I'm not doing anything until I have

an x-

> ray and MRI. But thanks to the holidays, I have to wait a week for

my

> therapist to read it. Oh well. I had my x-rays done laying down

this

> time. At the time of the accident they MADE me stand-up, I actually

> had to have them hold me up because my muscles were in shock. Does

> anyone know or have experienced a problem with x-rays diagnosis.

Like

> laying down it might show nothing wrong, but standing up tells a

whole

> different story? I just want to be armed with knowledge when I see

my

> therapist again. Oh! and, yes I did go to the emergency room when

my

> feet started going numb. They told me they could only give me pain

> meds and my family practice doctor would have to figure out what's

> wrong with me.

>

When i went to my family doctor with my back problem,he said noway do

xrays show anything major. only way to know for sure was an mri...he

had my appt with the neurosurgeon within a week and my mri 3 days

later.the neuro surgeon said same thing. if xrays were taken first it

wouldnt have shown any problem but the mri did.always ask for an mri!

[Guest guest]

:

Thanks so much for the kind words. I do not have another appointment yet. It is to bad I didn't have one schedule on the same day as your. We could have met and gotten acquainted. I will let you know when I get an appointment and if I decide to go forward with the next surgery. I hope your recovery continues to go well.

Elaine

PS to Andy> > Andy --> Hi, it's me again. You wrote a while back:> I sure hope this was my last surgery – it gets harder and harder the more you remember from your previous procedures. Can anyone relate to that???> I just want to say: O yes indeed!> After eight major spine jobs and countless pain-pump revisions, I needed yet another pump revision a couple months ago. This was merely the latest in a string of straightforward,

2-3-hour operations focused on the area just under my abdominal epidermis -- no messing with my spine or vital organs. For some reason, though, the prospect of this surgery had me weak in the knees and sternly wrenching myself back from the edge of hysteria. > Also, it took all of my resolve and much earnest self-pep-talking to get to the podiatrist for the bunionectomy and hammertoe revision I underwent this past fall. The procedure itself (performed without a hitch in an ambulatory surger unit) bent me out of shape for at least a week. > I seem to turn into a bigger baby with each new operation. I start globalizing and catastrophizing and having dark, amorphous feelings of impending doom. I hope no one suggests so much as a root canal to me anytime soon, or I will probably have a profound existential crisis followed by some kind of protracted phobic disorder. > I have no clue why it

gets harder and harder to "go under the knife." Shouldn't it be getting easier? > Your sincerely commiserating colleague,> > > > > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _____________ __> Never miss a thing. Make your home page. > http://www.. com/r/hs>

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

Well, to make doubly sure that our babies do NOT come into this world in

pure state of health, they want to mandate flu shots for pregnant women and

bombard the developing brain of the fetus with mercury and aluminium. Then -

as a double whammy - the little mite is given a Hepatitis B shot immediately

after birth plus a Vitamin K injection containing synthetic Vitamin K which

has been linked to childhood leukemia and so it goes on and on ... unless

parents and grandparents like me tell these Mengele clones NO MORE!

Ingrid Blank

THANKS

Thanks for accepting me at this group, I was looking for something like

this, I'm happy to be a member of people who really care about health

not money, the health and future of our generation depend a lot on us,

we are humans not machines, the organism of a baby come to this world

in pure state of health, until the so called ''scientist'' begin to

experiment on an innocent body, this body cannot recognize foreign

elements as 'mercury' this element cannot be assimilated and stay in

some place of our bodies and we all know the health problems that cause

in short and long term, vacciness can we trust it?

[Guest guest]

Well, to make doubly sure that our babies do NOT come into this world in

pure state of health, they want to mandate flu shots for pregnant women and

bombard the developing brain of the fetus with mercury and aluminium. Then -

as a double whammy - the little mite is given a Hepatitis B shot immediately

after birth plus a Vitamin K injection containing synthetic Vitamin K which

has been linked to childhood leukemia and so it goes on and on ... unless

parents and grandparents like me tell these Mengele clones NO MORE!

Ingrid Blank

THANKS

Thanks for accepting me at this group, I was looking for something like

this, I'm happy to be a member of people who really care about health

not money, the health and future of our generation depend a lot on us,

we are humans not machines, the organism of a baby come to this world

in pure state of health, until the so called ''scientist'' begin to

experiment on an innocent body, this body cannot recognize foreign

elements as 'mercury' this element cannot be assimilated and stay in

some place of our bodies and we all know the health problems that cause

in short and long term, vacciness can we trust it?

[Guest guest]

Thanks ...Yea, we are lucky to have such great doctors and staff...What would we do without them? Jim is feeling so good today...I'm happy to have him back...I hope your son in managing his gastritis...Mylanta & Prilosec worked wonders for Jim... Thanks again, I hope all is well with you...Are you still losing? I'm not...In fact I've gained 5 pounds ;( I got to watch the chocolate ...LOL...Some habits are hard to break... I'm tickled at my size though, so I'm not worried about losing more weight...But...I'll still lay off the chocolate don't want to go over 145... ttyl, Renaldccox@... wrote: Rena, I am so glad to hear Jim is feeling better. Gosh, who would have known he would have such a reaction. Isn't the medical team wonderful to get him back on track? They are always just a phone call away, if needed. My son suffers from gastritis and it is very painful. Thank heavens that due to my experience with Drs. A and C that I have been able to offer some assistance to him. He, too, is doing much better. C Tampa From: rena71857 Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2008 06:43:14 -0800Subject: Re: JIM HAS GASTRITIS Hi Bipley, Yes, come to find out Jim has Gastritis. I was ready to rush

him to the ER last Friday night. But after several calls to Nina, and then Dr. Compos called me several times as they were busy reviewing all of Jim's records to see what could be wrong when Nina remembered that another patient had in the past had the same symptoms...I called and spoke with her and sure enough they were the same symptoms. So Dr. Compos had me get Mylanta and Prilosec and once Jim took that he could immediately tell a difference and by morning he was pain free...Thank God! I was really scared for him...I'm sorry to say I was having all kinds of doubts about him ever getting the band...I was scared he was going to die, that is how much pain he was in... So now we need to learn all we can about Gastritis...So I've included some information on Gastritis for the new people fixing to get the Lap Band...This could happen to anyone and it's better to be prepared...I will say Jim didn't have any problems

until after we left the hospital and he was taking the pain pills they sent home with him...He may have taken the pain pills to often, I do know he used them all and so I personally believe the pain pills are what caused his problems... Erosive and hemorrhagic gastritis After H. pylori, the second most common cause of chronic gastritis is use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These commonly used pain killers, including aspirin, fenoprofen, ibuprofen and naproxen, among others, can lead to gastritis and peptic ulcers. Other forms of erosive gastritis are those due to alcohol and corrosive agents or due to trauma such as ingestion of foreign bodies, stress from surgery... Definition Gastritis commonly refers to inflammation of the lining of the stomach, but the term is often used to cover a variety of symptoms resulting from stomach lining inflammation

and symptoms of burning or discomfort. True gastritis comes in several forms and is diagnosed using a combination of tests. In the 1990s, scientists discovered that the main cause of true gastritis is infection from a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Description Gastritis should not be confused with common symptoms of upper abdominal discomfort. It has been associated with resulting ulcers, particularly peptic ulcers. And in some cases, chronic gastritis can lead to more serious complications. Nonerosive H. pylori gastritis The main cause of true gastritis is H. pylori infection. H. pylori is indicated in an average of 90% of patients with chronic gastritis. This form of nonerosive gastritis is the result of infection with Helicobacter pylori bacterium, a microorganism whose outer layer is resistant to the normal effects of stomach acid in breaking down

bacteria. The resistance of H. pylori means that the bacterium may rest in the stomach for long periods of times, even years, and eventually cause symptoms of gastritis or ulcers when other factors are introduced, such as the presence of specific genes or ingestion of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Study of the role of H. pylori in development of gastritis and peptic ulcers has disproved the former belief that stress lead to most stomach and duodenal ulcers and has resulted in improved treatment and reduction of stomach ulcers. H. pylori is most likely transmitted between humans, although the specific routes of transmission were still under study in early 1998. Studies were also underway to determine the role of H. pylori and resulting chronic gastritis in development of gastric cancer. Other forms of gastritis Clinicians differ on the classification of the less common and specific forms

of gastritis, particularly since there is so much overlap with H. pylori in development of chronic gastritis and complications of gastritis. Other types of gastritis that may be diagnosed include: Acute stress gastritis--the most serious form of gastritis which usually occurs in critically ill patients, such as those in intensive care. Stress erosions may develop suddenly as a result of severe trauma or stress to the stomach lining. Atrophic gastritis is the result of chronic gastritis which is leading to atrophy, or decrease in size and wasting away, of the gastric lining. Gastric atrophy is the final stage of chronic gastritis and may be a precursor to gastric cancer. Superficial gastritis is a term often used to describe the initial stages of chronic gastritis. Uncommon specific forms of gastritis include granulomatous, eosiniphilic and

lymphocytic gastritis. Causes and symptoms Nonerosive H. pylori gastritis H. pylori gastritis is caused by infection from the H. pylori bacterium. It is believed that most infection occurs in childhood. The route of its transmission was still under study in 1998 and clinicians guessed that there may be more than one route for the bacterium. Its prevalence and distribution differs in nations around the world. The presence of H. pylori has been detected in 86-99% of patients with chronic superficial gastritis. However, physicians are still learning about the link of H. pylori to chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, since many patients with H. pylori infection do not develop symptoms or peptic ulcers. H. pylori is also seen in 90-100% of patients with duodenal ulcers. Symptoms of H. pylori gastritis include abdominal pain and reduced acid secretion

in the stomach. However, the majority of patients with H. pylori infection suffer no symptoms, even though the infection may lead to ulcers and resulting symptoms. Ulcer symptoms include dull, gnawing pain, often two to three hours after meals and pain in the middle of the night when the stomach is empty. Erosive and hemorrhagic gastritis The most common cause of this form of gastritis is use of NSAIDS. Other causes may be alcoholism or stress from surgery or critical illness. The role of NSAIDS in development of gastritis and peptic ulcers depends on the dose level. Although even low doses of aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may cause some gastric upset, low doses generally will not lead to gastritis. However, as many as 10-30% of patients on higher and more frequent doses of NSAIDS, such as those with chronic arthritis, may develop gastric ulcers. In 1998, studies were underway to

understand the role of H. pylori in gastritis and ulcers among patients using NSAIDS. Patients with erosive gastritis may also show no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include anorexia nervosa, gastric pain, nausea and vomiting. Other Forms of Gastritis Less common forms of gastritis may result from a number of generalized diseases or from complications of chronic gastritis. Any number of mechanisms may cause various less common forms of gastritis and they may differ slightly in their symptoms and clinical signs. However, they all have in common inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Diagnosis Nonerosive H. pylori gastritis H. pylori gastritis is easily diagnosed through the use of the urea breath test. This test detects active presence of H. pylori infection. Other serological tests, which may be readily available in a physician's office, may be used to

detect H. pylori infection. Newly developed versions offer rapid diagnosis. The choice of test will depend on cost, availability and the physician's experience, since nearly all of the available tests have an accuracy rate of 90% or better. Endoscopy, or the examination of the stomach area using a hollow tube inserted through the mouth, may be ordered to confirm diagnosis. A biopsy of the gastric lining may also be ordered. Erosive or hemorrhagic gastritis Clinical history of the patient may be particularly important in the diagnosis of this type of gastritis, since its cause is most often the result of chronic use of NSAIDS, alcoholism, or other substances. Other forms of gastritis Gastritis that has developed to the stage of duodenal or gastric ulcers usually requires endoscopy for diagnosis. It allows the physician to perform a biopsy for possible malignancy and for H. pylori. Sometimes, an

upper gastrointestinal x-ray study with barium is ordered. Some diseases such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, an ulcer disease of the upper gastrointestinal tract, may show large mucosal folds in the stomach and duodenum on radiographs or in endoscopy. Other tests check for changes in gastric function. Treatment H. pylori gastritis The discovery of H. pylori's role in development of gastritis and ulcers has led to improved treatment of chronic gastritis. In particular, relapse rates for duodenal and gastric ulcers has been reduced with successful treatment of H. pylori infection. Since the infection can be treated with antibiotics, the bacterium can be completely eliminated up to 90% of the time. Although H. pylori can be successfully treated, the treatment may be uncomfortable for patients and relies heavily on patient compliance. In 1998, studies were underway to identify the best treatment

method based on simplicity, patient cooperation and results. No single antibiotic had been found which would eliminate H. pylori on its own, so a combination of antibiotics has been prescribed to treat the infection. DUAL THERAPY Dual therapy involves the use of an antibiotic and a proton pump inhibitor. Proton pump inhibitors help reduce stomach acid by halting the mechanism that pumps acid into the stomach. This also helps promote healing of ulcers or inflammation. Dual therapy has not been proven to be as effective as triple therapy, but may be ordered for some patients who can more comfortably handle the use of less drugs and will therefore more likely follow the two-week course of therapy. TRIPLE THERAPY As of early 1998, triple therapy was the preferred treatment for patients with H. pylori gastritis. It is estimated that triple therapy successfully eliminates 80-95% of H. pylori

cases. This treatment regimen usually involves a two-week course of three drugs. An antibiotic such as amoxicillin or tetracycline, and another antibiotic such as clarithomycin or metronidazole are used in combination with bismuth subsalicylate, a substance found in the over-the-counter medication, Pepto-Bismol, which helps protect the lining of the stomach from acid. Physicians were experimenting with various combinations of drugs and time of treatment to balance side effects with effectiveness. Side effects of triple therapy are not serious, but may cause enough discomfort that patients are not inclined to follow the treatment. OTHER TREATMENT THERAPIES Scientists have experimented with quadruple therapy, which adds an antisecretory drug, or one which suppresses gastric secretion, to the standard triple therapy. One study showed this therapy to be effective with only a week's course of treatment in more than 90% of patients. Short course

therapy was attempted with triple therapy involving antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor and seemed effective in eliminating H. pylori in one week for more than 90% of patients. The goal is to develop the most effective therapy combination that can work in one week of treatment or less. MEASURING H. PYLORI TREATMENT EFFECTIVENESS In order to ensure that H. pylori has been eradicated, physicians will test patients following treatment. The breath test is the preferred method to check for remaining signs of H. pylori. Treatment of erosive gastritis Since few patients with this form of gastritis show symptoms, treatment may depend on severity of symptoms. When symptoms do occur, patients may be treated with therapy similar to that for H. pylori, especially since some studies have demonstrated a link between H. pylori and NSAIDS in causing ulcers. Avoidance of NSAIDS will most

likely be prescribed. Other forms of gastritis Specific treatment will depend on the cause and type of gastritis. These may include prednisone or antibiotics. Critically ill patients at high risk for bleeding may be treated with preventive drugs to reduce risk of acute stress gastritis. If stress gastritis does occur, the patient is treated with constant infusion of a drug to stop bleeding. Sometimes surgery is recommended, but is weighed with the possibility of surgical complications or death. Once torrential bleeding occurs in acute stress gastritis, mortality is as high as greater than 60%. Alternative treatment Alternative forms of treatment for gastritis and ulcers should be used cautiously and in conjunction with conventional medical care, particularly now that scientists have confirmed the role of H. pylori in gastritis and ulcers. Alternative treatments can help address gastritis symptoms with

diet and nutritional supplements, herbal medicine and ayurvedic medicine. It is believed that zinc, vitamin A and beta-carotene aid in the stomach lining's ability to repair and regenerate itself. Herbs thought to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation include echinacea (Echinacea spp.) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis). Ayurvedic medicine involves meditation. There are also certain herbs and nutritional supplements aimed at helping to treat ulcers. Prognosis The discovery of H. pylori has improved the prognosis for patients with gastritis and ulcers. Since treatment exists to eradicate the infection, recurrence is much less common. As of 1998, the only patients requiring treatment for H. pylori were those at high risk because of factors such as NSAIDS use or for those with ulcers and other complicating factors or symptoms. Research will continue into the most effective treatment of H.

pylori, especially in light of the bacterium's resistance to certain antibiotics. Regular treatment of patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers has been recommended, since H. pylori plays such a consistently high role in development of ulcers. It is believed that H. pylori also plays a role in the eventual development of serious gastritis complications and cancer. Detection and treatment of H. pylori infection may help reduce occurrence of these diseases. The prognosis for patients with acute stress gastritis is much poorer, with a 60 percent or higher mortality rate among those bleeding heavily. Prevention The widespread detection and treatment of H. pylori as a preventive measure in gastritis has been discussed but not resolved. Until more is known about the routes through which H. pylori is spread, specific prevention recommendations are not available. Erosive gastritis from NSAIDS can be prevented with

cessation of use of these drugs. An education campaign was launched in 1998 to educate patients, particularly an aging population of arthritis sufferers, about risk for ulcers from NSAIDS and alternative drugs. Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Search.

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

Rena, My losing has very much slowed down. I have kicked up my exercise. I feel very good and have lots of energy. I sleep well at night. Some days I can eat full portions at a meal and some days I cannot. Every time I think I need a fill, I tighten up. I have just not been able to get the scales to move below 195. I added the second workout this morning to see what I could get going for me. Sometimes I wish I could just fly to Mexico and have all this fat suctioned with the lipo wand and be done with it. That will all happen in due time, I'm sure.

From: rena71857@...Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2008 13:42:57 -0800Subject: RE: Thanks

Thanks ...Yea, we are lucky to have such great doctors and staff...What would we do without them? Jim is feeling so good today...I'm happy to have him back...I hope your son in managing his gastritis...Mylanta & Prilosec worked wonders for Jim...

Thanks again, I hope all is well with you...Are you still losing? I'm not...In fact I've gained 5 pounds ;( I got to watch the chocolate ...LOL...Some habits are hard to break...

I'm tickled at my size though, so I'm not worried about losing more weight...But...I'll still lay off the chocolate don't want to go over 145...

ttyl, Renaldccox@... wrote:

Rena, I am so glad to hear Jim is feeling better. Gosh, who would have known he would have such a reaction. Isn't the medical team wonderful to get him back on track? They are always just a phone call away, if needed. My son suffers from gastritis and it is very painful. Thank heavens that due to my experience with Drs. A and C that I have been able to offer some assistance to him. He, too, is doing much better. C Tampa

From: rena71857 Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2008 06:43:14 -0800Subject: Re: JIM HAS GASTRITIS

Hi Bipley,

Yes, come to find out Jim has Gastritis. I was ready to rush him to the ER last Friday night. But after several calls to Nina, and then Dr. Compos called me several times as they were busy reviewing all of Jim's records to see what could be wrong when Nina remembered that another patient had in the past had the same symptoms...I called and spoke with her and sure enough they were the same symptoms. So Dr. Compos had me get Mylanta and Prilosec and once Jim took that he could immediately tell a difference and by morning he was pain free...Thank God! I was really scared for him...I'm sorry to say I was having all kinds of doubts about him ever getting the band...I was scared he was going to die, that is how much pain he was in...

So now we need to learn all we can about Gastritis...So I've included some information on Gastritis for the new people fixing to get the Lap Band...This could happen to anyone and it's better to be prepared...I will say Jim didn't have any problems until after we left the hospital and he was taking the pain pills they sent home with him...He may have taken the pain pills to often, I do know he used them all and so I personally believe the pain pills are what caused his problems... Erosive and hemorrhagic gastritis After H. pylori, the second most common cause of chronic gastritis is use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These commonly used pain killers, including aspirin, fenoprofen, ibuprofen and naproxen, among others, can lead to gastritis and peptic ulcers. Other forms of erosive gastritis are those due to alcohol and corrosive agents or due to trauma such as ingestion of foreign bodies, stress from surgery...

Definition

Gastritis commonly refers to inflammation of the lining of the stomach, but the term is often used to cover a variety of symptoms resulting from stomach lining inflammation and symptoms of burning or discomfort. True gastritis comes in several forms and is diagnosed using a combination of tests. In the 1990s, scientists discovered that the main cause of true gastritis is infection from a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

Description

Gastritis should not be confused with common symptoms of upper abdominal discomfort. It has been associated with resulting ulcers, particularly peptic ulcers. And in some cases, chronic gastritis can lead to more serious complications.

Nonerosive H. pylori gastritis

The main cause of true gastritis is H. pylori infection. H. pylori is indicated in an average of 90% of patients with chronic gastritis. This form of nonerosive gastritis is the result of infection with Helicobacter pylori bacterium, a microorganism whose outer layer is resistant to the normal effects of stomach acid in breaking down bacteria.

The resistance of H. pylori means that the bacterium may rest in the stomach for long periods of times, even years, and eventually cause symptoms of gastritis or ulcers when other factors are introduced, such as the presence of specific genes or ingestion of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Study of the role of H. pylori in development of gastritis and peptic ulcers has disproved the former belief that stress lead to most stomach and duodenal ulcers and has resulted in improved treatment and reduction of stomach ulcers. H. pylori is most likely transmitted between humans, although the specific routes of transmission were still under study in early 1998. Studies were also underway to determine the role of H. pylori and resulting chronic gastritis in development of gastric cancer.

Other forms of gastritis

Clinicians differ on the classification of the less common and specific forms of gastritis, particularly since there is so much overlap with H. pylori in development of chronic gastritis and complications of gastritis. Other types of gastritis that may be diagnosed include:

Acute stress gastritis--the most serious form of gastritis which usually occurs in critically ill patients, such as those in intensive care. Stress erosions may develop suddenly as a result of severe trauma or stress to the stomach lining.

Atrophic gastritis is the result of chronic gastritis which is leading to atrophy, or decrease in size and wasting away, of the gastric lining. Gastric atrophy is the final stage of chronic gastritis and may be a precursor to gastric cancer.

Superficial gastritis is a term often used to describe the initial stages of chronic gastritis.

Uncommon specific forms of gastritis include granulomatous, eosiniphilic and lymphocytic gastritis.

Causes and symptoms

Nonerosive H. pylori gastritis

H. pylori gastritis is caused by infection from the H. pylori bacterium. It is believed that most infection occurs in childhood. The route of its transmission was still under study in 1998 and clinicians guessed that there may be more than one route for the bacterium. Its prevalence and distribution differs in nations around the world. The presence of H. pylori has been detected in 86-99% of patients with chronic superficial gastritis. However, physicians are still learning about the link of H. pylori to chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, since many patients with H. pylori infection do not develop symptoms or peptic ulcers. H. pylori is also seen in 90-100% of patients with duodenal ulcers.

Symptoms of H. pylori gastritis include abdominal pain and reduced acid secretion in the stomach. However, the majority of patients with H. pylori infection suffer no symptoms, even though the infection may lead to ulcers and resulting symptoms. Ulcer symptoms include dull, gnawing pain, often two to three hours after meals and pain in the middle of the night when the stomach is empty.

Erosive and hemorrhagic gastritis

The most common cause of this form of gastritis is use of NSAIDS. Other causes may be alcoholism or stress from surgery or critical illness. The role of NSAIDS in development of gastritis and peptic ulcers depends on the dose level. Although even low doses of aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may cause some gastric upset, low doses generally will not lead to gastritis. However, as many as 10-30% of patients on higher and more frequent doses of NSAIDS, such as those with chronic arthritis, may develop gastric ulcers. In 1998, studies were underway to understand the role of H. pylori in gastritis and ulcers among patients using NSAIDS.

Patients with erosive gastritis may also show no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include anorexia nervosa, gastric pain, nausea and vomiting.

Other Forms of Gastritis

Less common forms of gastritis may result from a number of generalized diseases or from complications of chronic gastritis. Any number of mechanisms may cause various less common forms of gastritis and they may differ slightly in their symptoms and clinical signs. However, they all have in common inflammation of the gastric mucosa.

Diagnosis

Nonerosive H. pylori gastritis

H. pylori gastritis is easily diagnosed through the use of the urea breath test. This test detects active presence of H. pylori infection. Other serological tests, which may be readily available in a physician's office, may be used to detect H. pylori infection. Newly developed versions offer rapid diagnosis. The choice of test will depend on cost, availability and the physician's experience, since nearly all of the available tests have an accuracy rate of 90% or better. Endoscopy, or the examination of the stomach area using a hollow tube inserted through the mouth, may be ordered to confirm diagnosis. A biopsy of the gastric lining may also be ordered.

Erosive or hemorrhagic gastritis

Clinical history of the patient may be particularly important in the diagnosis of this type of gastritis, since its cause is most often the result of chronic use of NSAIDS, alcoholism, or other substances.

Other forms of gastritis

Gastritis that has developed to the stage of duodenal or gastric ulcers usually requires endoscopy for diagnosis. It allows the physician to perform a biopsy for possible malignancy and for H. pylori. Sometimes, an upper gastrointestinal x-ray study with barium is ordered. Some diseases such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, an ulcer disease of the upper gastrointestinal tract, may show large mucosal folds in the stomach and duodenum on radiographs or in endoscopy. Other tests check for changes in gastric function.

Treatment

H. pylori gastritis

The discovery of H. pylori's role in development of gastritis and ulcers has led to improved treatment of chronic gastritis. In particular, relapse rates for duodenal and gastric ulcers has been reduced with successful treatment of H. pylori infection. Since the infection can be treated with antibiotics, the bacterium can be completely eliminated up to 90% of the time.

Although H. pylori can be successfully treated, the treatment may be uncomfortable for patients and relies heavily on patient compliance. In 1998, studies were underway to identify the best treatment method based on simplicity, patient cooperation and results. No single antibiotic had been found which would eliminate H. pylori on its own, so a combination of antibiotics has been prescribed to treat the infection.

DUAL THERAPY

Dual therapy involves the use of an antibiotic and a proton pump inhibitor. Proton pump inhibitors help reduce stomach acid by halting the mechanism that pumps acid into the stomach. This also helps promote healing of ulcers or inflammation. Dual therapy has not been proven to be as effective as triple therapy, but may be ordered for some patients who can more comfortably handle the use of less drugs and will therefore more likely follow the two-week course of therapy.

TRIPLE THERAPY

As of early 1998, triple therapy was the preferred treatment for patients with H. pylori gastritis. It is estimated that triple therapy successfully eliminates 80-95% of H. pylori cases. This treatment regimen usually involves a two-week course of three drugs. An antibiotic such as amoxicillin or tetracycline, and another antibiotic such as clarithomycin or metronidazole are used in combination with bismuth subsalicylate, a substance found in the over-the-counter medication, Pepto-Bismol, which helps protect the lining of the stomach from acid. Physicians were experimenting with various combinations of drugs and time of treatment to balance side effects with effectiveness. Side effects of triple therapy are not serious, but may cause enough discomfort that patients are not inclined to follow the treatment.

OTHER TREATMENT THERAPIES

Scientists have experimented with quadruple therapy, which adds an antisecretory drug, or one which suppresses gastric secretion, to the standard triple therapy. One study showed this therapy to be effective with only a week's course of treatment in more than 90% of patients. Short course therapy was attempted with triple therapy involving antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor and seemed effective in eliminating H. pylori in one week for more than 90% of patients. The goal is to develop the most effective therapy combination that can work in one week of treatment or less.

MEASURING H. PYLORI TREATMENT EFFECTIVENESS

In order to ensure that H. pylori has been eradicated, physicians will test patients following treatment. The breath test is the preferred method to check for remaining signs of H. pylori.

Treatment of erosive gastritis

Since few patients with this form of gastritis show symptoms, treatment may depend on severity of symptoms. When symptoms do occur, patients may be treated with therapy similar to that for H. pylori, especially since some studies have demonstrated a link between H. pylori and NSAIDS in causing ulcers. Avoidance of NSAIDS will most likely be prescribed.

Other forms of gastritis

Specific treatment will depend on the cause and type of gastritis. These may include prednisone or antibiotics. Critically ill patients at high risk for bleeding may be treated with preventive drugs to reduce risk of acute stress gastritis. If stress gastritis does occur, the patient is treated with constant infusion of a drug to stop bleeding. Sometimes surgery is recommended, but is weighed with the possibility of surgical complications or death. Once torrential bleeding occurs in acute stress gastritis, mortality is as high as greater than 60%.

Alternative treatment

Alternative forms of treatment for gastritis and ulcers should be used cautiously and in conjunction with conventional medical care, particularly now that scientists have confirmed the role of H. pylori in gastritis and ulcers. Alternative treatments can help address gastritis symptoms with diet and nutritional supplements, herbal medicine and ayurvedic medicine. It is believed that zinc, vitamin A and beta-carotene aid in the stomach lining's ability to repair and regenerate itself. Herbs thought to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation include echinacea (Echinacea spp.) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis). Ayurvedic medicine involves meditation. There are also certain herbs and nutritional supplements aimed at helping to treat ulcers.

Prognosis

The discovery of H. pylori has improved the prognosis for patients with gastritis and ulcers. Since treatment exists to eradicate the infection, recurrence is much less common. As of 1998, the only patients requiring treatment for H. pylori were those at high risk because of factors such as NSAIDS use or for those with ulcers and other complicating factors or symptoms. Research will continue into the most effective treatment of H. pylori, especially in light of the bacterium's resistance to certain antibiotics. Regular treatment of patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers has been recommended, since H. pylori plays such a consistently high role in development of ulcers. It is believed that H. pylori also plays a role in the eventual development of serious gastritis complications and cancer. Detection and treatment of H. pylori infection may help reduce occurrence of these diseases. The prognosis for patients with acute stress gastritis is much poorer, with a 60 percent or higher mortality rate among those bleeding heavily.

Prevention

The widespread detection and treatment of H. pylori as a preventive measure in gastritis has been discussed but not resolved. Until more is known about the routes through which H. pylori is spread, specific prevention recommendations are not available. Erosive gastritis from NSAIDS can be prevented with cessation of use of these drugs. An education campaign was launched in 1998 to educate patients, particularly an aging population of arthritis sufferers, about risk for ulcers from NSAIDS and alternative drugs.

Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Search.

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

...Yep. There are a few to pick from. Liquids and chewables. I prefer chewables as the liquid makes me gag and not be very compliant. I take Flinstone " Complete " 2-4 daily, Centrum Silver (1) because they taste better than Centrum chewables. Centrum silver has more stuff in it but not a lot of iron if you happen to need iron.

I get sick of them after a while and change brands. Walgreens has a generic Flinstone brand that I liked better for some time but got sick of those too. Now I'm on Centrum Silver.

On Fri, Mar 7, 2008 at 1:38 PM, Muchmore <melissamuchmore@...> wrote:

Thanks for the help! I'll have to get something else because that is a huge difference in protein. Should I start taking a multivitamin right after surgery?

Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Search.

[Guest guest]

Thanks. I'll check that out today. Lewellen <sultrykiss_indiana@...> wrote: , Please go to www.unjury.com and purchase their products. Especially the Unflavored, Vanilla and Chocolate. High protein, low carb, good fiber. HIGH QUALITY protein. Muchmore <melissamuchmore > wrote: Thanks for the help! I'll have to get something else because that is a huge difference in protein. Should I start taking a multivitamin right after surgery? Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Search. Never miss a thing. Make your homepage.

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

I don't know of any clinics but there is an endocrinologist at City

Hospital in Birmingham who prescribes Armour. Go to the files and

check out 'Does synthetic thyroxine work for everyone?' and check out

the doctors on the web.

" Also I do not seem to be able to locate any clinic for Dr. Peatfield

near the west midlands, anyone know of any? "

[Guest guest]

Quite probably because nobody has arranged any clinics over there for him to attend. If you feel you could do this (olr anybody else), I am sure Dr Peatfield would be only too delighted to attend. You need to find a suitable location where there is a waiting room and a room suitable to run a clinic (if possible downstairs) so people in wheelchairs could access it, and get a list of people who wanting to attend.

Luv - Sheila

"Also I do not seem to be able to locate any clinic for Dr. Peatfield near the west midlands, anyone know of any?"

No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.519 / Virus Database: 269.22.1/1352 - Release Date: 31/03/2008 10:13

[Guest guest]

Hi Kirsten,

Thanks for your kind words! We are all in the same boat here.

Re Armour, have you seen the info in the files? Going it alone is a last

resort, I also know how hard it is to travel- I still don't know how I

managed the drive to Surrey from Suffolk to see Dr. P, but I was so

determined to make a difference to my dreadful quality of life.

After seeing Dr. P I sat in the car and cried, I was vindicated it was the

thyroxine that was making me so ill as well as not dealing with my hypo

symptoms.

I made frequent stops and went straight to bed on getting home, but I knew

I'd soon be feeling better and that's how it went, 10 days later I woke up

with a smile on my face instead of being shaken into some form of

wakefulness by my OH. Now instead of dreading a long drive I ride 200 miles

on Sundays on my motorbike just for fun! ( I'm 55)

Subject: Thanks

Also, from the few replies I have had from some of you so far, I do not

think you realize just

how much difference you have made for me. Until I found you, I had been

starting to feel

more and more desperate and hopeless, even to the point, where I was ready

to give up!

Bless you,

Kirsten

------------------------------------

Messages are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always

consult with a suitably qualified practitioner before changing

medication.

[Guest guest]

>

> I don't know of any clinics but there is an endocrinologist at City

> Hospital in Birmingham who prescribes Armour. Go to the files and

> check out 'Does synthetic thyroxine work for everyone?' and check out

> the doctors on the web.

>

>

>

>

> " Also I do not seem to be able to locate any clinic for Dr. Peatfield

> near the west midlands, anyone know of any? "

>

Do you know the name of this endocrinologist? I am afraid my brain got lost in

the files and I

cannot seem to find my way around. I am quite despreate. Kirsten

[Guest guest]

HI Glynis

Can't think who you are talking about. Can you tell me the name of this person privately please.

Luv - heila

Re: Thanks

>> I don't know of any clinics but there is an endocrinologist at City > Hospital in Birmingham who prescribes Armour. Go to the files and > check out 'Does synthetic thyroxine work for everyone?' and check out > the doctors on the web.> > > > > "Also I do not seem to be able to locate any clinic for Dr. Peatfield > near the west midlands, anyone know of any?">Do you know the name of this endocrinologist? I am afraid my brain got lost in the files and I cannot seem to find my way around. I am quite despreate. Kirsten

No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.519 / Virus Database: 269.22.1/1352 - Release Date: 31/03/2008 10:13

[Guest guest]

Thanks ! You never know, I have never been in a 4 before and never thought it possible but now with my lil band all things are possible...

Thanks again, Rena

From: c_bergle <c_bergle@...>Subject: Re: Our visit with Dr. B. Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2008, 12:40 PM

Good news for both you and Jim. Congratulations on all your jointsuccess! Size 4? In my dreams. . .

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

a, How exciting. Thoughts and prayers will be with you. Relax and know that you are in the best of hands and that you are not alone. Hop on this board anytime and we'll be right there. Dr. A's patients "BAND" together, wear their hearts on their SLEEVES, and will not BYPASS anyone. There. I was trying to be inclusive! Enjoy this adventure. You are going to love the hope your band brings, with results. blackfeet61 <blackfeet61@...> wrote: Thanks to everyone who responded to my questions and statements recently.I meet the van at the airport in the morning and have my banding Friday morning.I'm happy the day is finally almost here. I know the band is the tool that will help me lose the weight I need to lose and live life again instead of just existing.Thanks again,a

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

, Thank you again. I'm home now and feeling pretty good. Everything everyone has said about Dr. Aceves and the A Team is true; the doctors, nurses office staff and the hospital are top rate. I'm glad I chose Dr. Aceves and am almost thankful my insurance excluded WLS and I found him instead. My only hesitation was spending, what was, my life savings saving my life when I felt my insurance should have covered it. However, I know it was money well spent and look forward to new beginnings and a new way of living life. With my new beginnings is a new ID I will use for this message board. My new Id is bandedatlast@... and will begin using it today. It was great meet all the

wonderful people who were at the hospital getting their procedures done (sorry I can't remember all your names).Thanks for the encouranging words and support. I wish you all great success and happy lives. For those whom I did not get a change to talk with, good luck. a Payette <c_bergle@...> wrote: a, How exciting. Thoughts and prayers will be with you. Relax and know that you

are in the best of hands and that you are not alone. Hop on this board anytime and we'll be right there. Dr. A's patients "BAND" together, wear their hearts on their SLEEVES, and will not BYPASS anyone. There. I was trying to be inclusive! Enjoy this adventure. You are going to love the hope your band brings, with results. blackfeet61 <blackfeet61 > wrote: Thanks to everyone who responded to my questions and statements recently.I meet the van at the airport in the morning and have my banding Friday morning.I'm happy the day is finally almost here. I know the band is the tool that will help me lose the weight I need to lose and live life again instead of just existing.Thanks

again,a Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

Darlene, You can apply moist heat pack to the area on your nose for 20 minutes 2-3 times a day. I would wash the area with a good antiseptic soap, hibiclens is a real good one, comes in blue bottle at the drugstore. May want to see Dr for a prescription anitbiotic ointment. MRSA grows in the majority of people in the nose. Once it starts to drain, you want to keep a dressing on it and change it twice a day and more often if draining seeps through. Sandie -- Thanks Thanks for the e-mails I received about my strange dx about under-dosed meds or what? I told my pain doctor what my primary had told me and he didn't really say much about it !! wonder why?? but he did change my fentanyl patches from 50 mcg every 72 hours to 75 mcg every 48 and you know I am not feeling the same way , I feel better there! but lo and behold I have a boil in my nose and on the side of it and I have been in so much pain from it and its calm for right now till the meds wear out. any body know what to do about this???!!! thanks much,Dar in Texas Gentle Hugs,Dar

[Guest guest]

What a marvelous offer! Thank you so much. Volunteers have already

donated, as you can see, Spanish and Italian translations of our textbook,

" A Call To Immunics, "

http://www.wayimmune.org/00open/shop/bookad.htm

and a Dutch translation would be a great addition. And I'm sure it will do

you a world of good to translate it -- perhaps you could even collaborate

with your buddy, Nell. If you put your heads together, I'm sure you'll be

able to capture the exact essence of each sentence.

Just send it to us when it's ready, and Frannie will put it in a beautiful

PDF version, with its exact cover and everything. By the way, the title is

a paraphrase of Hemingway's title, " A Call To Arms. " Keep us posted on

your progress.

b

At 09:25 AM 7/15/2008 +0200, you wrote:

>Thank you for all the mail & I am an immunicer as of march this year. Have

>accomplished a lot, however still doing the lessons. My buddy here in Holland

>

>Is Mrs Nel Koets. Though to bring it over here the englisch language is

>for some people a problem. Have there ever been thoughts at your end for

>translation into Dutch????

>

>

>

>Regards,

>

>Elly Tijsterman

>

>

>

>No virus found in this incoming message.

>Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com

>Version: 8.0.138 / Virus Database: 270.4.10/1552 - Release Date: 7/14/2008

>6:28 PM