Get a medical diagnosis and identify the cause (H. pylori infection, NSAID use, bile reflux, autoimmune causes, stress-related flares)
Test for and treat H. pylori if positive (follow the full prescribed eradication regimen)
Stop or minimize NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin) and use alternatives approved by a clinician if needed
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
Take acid-suppressing medication as prescribed (PPI or H2 blocker) and follow the full course
Use gastroprotective therapy if recommended (e.g., sucralfate) for persistent symptoms
Review and adjust meds that can worsen gastritis (with a clinician)
Manage reflux triggers (avoid late meals, elevate head of bed if nighttime symptoms, manage weight if applicable)
Modify diet based on tolerance (reduce spicy/acidic foods, caffeine, carbonated drinks, and fatty/fried foods if they worsen symptoms)
Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Ensure adequate hydration
Address underlying conditions (e.g., autoimmune disease, bile reflux) with clinician-directed treatment
Reduce stress through consistent practices (sleep, exercise, relaxation techniques) to lower symptom flares
Avoid foods that clearly trigger symptoms for you
Follow up with a clinician if symptoms persist, recur quickly after stopping treatment, or worsen
Seek urgent care for alarm symptoms (vomiting blood, black/tarry stools, unintentional weight loss, progressive trouble swallowing, severe persistent pain, anemia)