How to prepare for a video visit about Gastritis (Acute)

Audience: adult

Acute gastritis is a sudden inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause discomfort such as stomach pain, nausea, or indigestion. Preparing for a video visit about acute gastritis can help you get the most from your time with your healthcare provider. During the visit, you may discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and any medications or supplements you are taking. Telemedicine can often help assess your condition, suggest ways to relieve symptoms, and guide you on when to seek further care. However, some situations require in-person evaluation, such as severe pain or bleeding. This guide will help you prepare for your video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do for acute gastritis, and know when to get urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening stomach pain that does not improve with treatment — seek urgent medical care.
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds — go to the emergency department immediately.
• Black, tarry stools or any sign of gastrointestinal bleeding — get emergency evaluation without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to acute gastritis.
• Providing advice on diet, lifestyle changes, and over-the-counter treatments.
• Determining if symptoms are mild and can be managed at home.
• Guiding when to seek in-person care or emergency services.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination or diagnostic tests like endoscopy.
• Treating severe complications such as bleeding or dehydration.
• Administering emergency treatments or procedures.
• Diagnosing other serious conditions that may mimic gastritis symptoms.

What is Acute Gastritis?

Acute gastritis is when the lining of your stomach becomes inflamed quickly. This can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or indigestion. Common causes include infections, certain medications like NSAIDs, alcohol use, or stress. Symptoms usually develop suddenly and may last a few days to weeks.

How Telemedicine Can Help

During a video visit, your healthcare provider can ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They may help identify possible causes and suggest treatments like dietary changes or medications to reduce stomach acid. Telemedicine can also help you understand how to avoid triggers and when to seek further care.

What Telemedicine Cannot Do

A video visit cannot perform physical exams or tests like blood work or endoscopy. If your symptoms are severe or if there are signs of complications, you may need to visit a clinic or hospital for in-person evaluation and treatment.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms, when they started, and any factors that make them better or worse. List all medications, supplements, and any recent changes. Find a quiet, well-lit place for the visit with a reliable internet connection. Have a pen and paper ready to take notes.

After Your Video Visit

Follow the advice and treatment plan your provider gives. Monitor your symptoms and report any worsening or new signs. If tests or follow-up visits are recommended, schedule them promptly. Maintain any lifestyle changes suggested to help your stomach heal.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your symptoms with start dates and severity.
• Write down all current medications and supplements.
• Prepare to describe your diet, alcohol use, and recent stressors.
• Find a quiet, private space with good internet for the video call.
• Have your ID and health information ready if needed.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow treatment and lifestyle recommendations provided.
• Monitor symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Schedule any recommended lab tests or follow-up visits.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms appear.
• Maintain communication with your healthcare provider as needed.

FAQs

What causes acute gastritis?

Acute gastritis can be caused by infections (like Helicobacter pylori), use of certain medications (such as NSAIDs), alcohol consumption, stress, or other irritants that damage the stomach lining.

Can I treat acute gastritis at home?

Mild cases may improve with rest, avoiding irritants like spicy foods or alcohol, and using over-the-counter antacids. However, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and get proper advice.

When should I seek emergency care for gastritis symptoms?

Seek emergency care if you experience severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, or signs of dehydration. These may indicate serious complications requiring immediate treatment.

Will I need tests during a telemedicine visit?

Tests cannot be performed during a video visit, but your provider may recommend blood tests, stool tests, or an endoscopy to better understand your condition, which would require an in-person visit.

How can I prevent acute gastritis from returning?

Avoid known irritants like NSAIDs, alcohol, and smoking. Eat a balanced diet, manage stress, and follow your healthcare provider's advice to protect your stomach lining.

Sources

1. Gastritis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Gastritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
3. Gastritis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.
4. Gastritis and Gastropathy — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine can help guide and support your care but cannot replace in-person evaluation when needed. Always seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe symptoms or emergency signs.