What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Gastritis (Acute)

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for acute gastritis, you will usually receive advice on managing your symptoms and preventing further stomach irritation. Acute gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause pain, nausea, or indigestion. Your healthcare provider may suggest lifestyle changes such as avoiding spicy foods, alcohol, and smoking. They might also recommend medications to reduce stomach acid or treat an infection if needed. It is important to follow these instructions carefully and watch for any worsening symptoms. If your symptoms improve, you may not need an in-person visit. However, if you experience severe pain, vomiting blood, or other serious signs, seek emergency care immediately. Telemedicine can help guide you through early treatment and decide when further medical attention is necessary.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe, persistent stomach pain that does not improve — contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• Black, tarry stools indicating possible internal bleeding — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of symptoms suggestive of acute gastritis.
• Providing guidance on symptom management and lifestyle changes.
• Prescribing medications for symptom relief and infection treatment when appropriate.
• Monitoring symptom progress and advising on follow-up care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Conducting diagnostic procedures such as endoscopy or imaging.
• Managing severe complications like gastrointestinal bleeding or dehydration.
• Administering emergency treatments or intravenous therapies.

Understanding Acute Gastritis

Acute gastritis is a sudden inflammation of the stomach lining. It can cause symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Common causes include infections (such as Helicobacter pylori), certain medications (like NSAIDs), alcohol use, or stress. Most cases improve with simple treatments and lifestyle changes.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine appointment, your healthcare provider will likely recommend ways to ease your symptoms. This may include avoiding irritants like spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol. They might suggest over-the-counter antacids or prescribe medications to reduce stomach acid. If an infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed. Your provider will also advise on symptoms to watch for and when to seek further care.

Managing Symptoms at Home

To help your stomach heal, try these steps:

These measures often help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

When to Seek In-Person or Emergency Care

If you notice any of these warning signs, get medical help promptly:

These symptoms may indicate complications that require urgent evaluation.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your healthcare provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit to check your progress. If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, further testing such as blood work, stool tests, or endoscopy may be needed to identify the cause and guide treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your current symptoms ready, including when they started and their severity.
• Prepare a list of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Note any recent changes in diet, medication, or lifestyle that may affect your stomach.
• Be ready to describe any previous stomach or digestive issues you have had.
• Ensure you have a quiet, private space with a reliable internet connection for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a notepad or device ready to write down instructions and advice from your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid foods and substances that may irritate your stomach lining.
• Monitor your symptoms closely and keep track of any changes or new symptoms.
• Schedule and attend any recommended follow-up appointments, either via telemedicine or in person.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you develop any red flag symptoms.
• Maintain communication with your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns during your recovery.

FAQs

Can I treat acute gastritis without visiting a doctor in person?

Many cases of acute gastritis can be managed initially through telemedicine visits where your provider can recommend lifestyle changes and medications. However, if symptoms are severe or do not improve, an in-person evaluation may be necessary.

What medications might my provider prescribe after a telemedicine visit?

Your provider may suggest antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid. If an infection like Helicobacter pylori is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed.

How long does it usually take for gastritis symptoms to improve?

With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, symptoms often improve within a few days to a week. Persistent or worsening symptoms should be reported to your healthcare provider.

Is it safe to take over-the-counter pain relievers if I have gastritis?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can irritate your stomach lining and may worsen gastritis. It is best to discuss pain relief options with your healthcare provider.

When should I seek emergency care after a telemedicine visit?

Seek emergency care if you experience vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, severe abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness or fainting.

Sources

1. Gastritis — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Gastritis: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Gastritis — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.
4. Gastritis and Gastropathy — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Telemedicine guidance is not a substitute for in-person care when needed.