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Gastritis in Children
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
Gastritis is inflammation or irritation of the lining of your child's stomach.
Call 911 for any of the following:
- Your child develops chest pain or shortness of breath.
Return to the emergency department if:
- Your child vomits blood.
- Your child has black or bloody bowel movements.
- Your child has severe stomach or back pain.
Contact your child's healthcare provider if:
- Your child has a fever.
- Your child has new or worsening symptoms, even after treatment.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
- Medicines may be given to help treat a bacterial infection or decrease stomach acid.
- Give your child's medicine as directed. Contact your child's healthcare provider if you think the medicine is not working as expected. Tell him or her if your child is allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs your child takes. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why they are taken. Bring the list or the medicines in their containers to follow-up visits. Carry your child's medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage or prevent gastritis:
- Keep batteries and similar objects out of your child's reach. Button batteries are easy to swallow and can cause serious damage. Keep battery covers taped closed. Examples include electronic devices such as remote controls Store all batteries and toxic materials where children cannot get to them. Use childproof locks to keep children away from dangerous materials.
- Do not give your child foods that cause irritation. Foods such as oranges and salsa can cause burning or pain. Give your child a variety of healthy foods. Examples include fruits (not citrus), vegetables, low-fat dairy products, beans, whole-grain breads, and lean meats and fish. Encourage your child to eat small meals, and drink water with meals. Do not let your child eat for at least 3 hours before he or she goes to bed.
- Do not smoke around your child. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can make your child's symptoms worse and cause lung damage. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
- Help your child relax and decrease stress. Stress can increase stomach acid and make gastritis worse. Activities such as yoga, meditation, mindful activities, or listening to music can help your child relax.
Follow up with your child's healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your child's visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Gastritis in Children (Aftercare Instructions)
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