Duodenitis

An inflammation of the duodenum

Classification
External resources

Overview

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Diagram of the duodenum

Duodenitis is an inflammation of the duodenum, which is the first section of the small intestine immediately beyond the stomach. It is a condition that can cause significant discomfort and may be associated with other gastrointestinal disorders.

Causes

Duodenitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Stress
• Autoimmune disorders

Symptoms

The symptoms of duodenitis can vary but often include:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of duodenitis typically involves:

• Endoscopy: A procedure that allows direct visualization of the duodenum.
• Biopsy: Taking a small tissue sample for examination.
• Blood tests: To check for infection or inflammation.
• Stool tests: To detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori.

Treatment

Treatment for duodenitis depends on the underlying cause:

• Antibiotics: For bacterial infections such as Helicobacter pylori.
• Proton pump inhibitors: To reduce stomach acid production.
• H2-receptor antagonists: To decrease acid secretion.
• Lifestyle modifications: Such as dietary changes and reducing alcohol and tobacco use.

Prevention

Preventive measures for duodenitis include:

• Avoiding excessive use of NSAIDs
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress effectively

Related pages

• Gastritis
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease