Duodenitis

An inflammation of the duodenum

Classification
External resources

Overview

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