Factors associated with chronic gastritis in patients with presence and absence of Helicobacter pylori.

BACKGROUND Chronic gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach mucosa, which is considered its main etiological factor the Helicobacter pylori. AIM To observe the differences in patients with chronic gastritis as well as the presence and absence of H. pylori, to obtain a better understanding of the etiological factors, clinical, dietary and lifestyle habits and associated diseases. METHODS This was a descriptive study, retrospective medical records of patients with chronic gastritis treated as outpatients. Endoscopy and research of H. pylori was used in the diagnosis of chronic gastritis. The survey was conducted through a questionnaire to ascertain the risk factors for chronic gastritis and the clinical manifestations of disease, dietary and lifestyle habits, family history of the disease, weight changes and medications. For statistical analysis was used Spearman coefficient. Data were considered statistically significant p<0.05. RESULTS Of the 94 patients evaluated were symptomatic with heartburn, belching, epigastric pain, fullness and nausea. In 56.6% (n = 54) of individuals was detected the presence of bacteria and in 43.6% (n = 40) was not found any specific etiologic factor. Was performed chi-square statistical test of clinical manifestations and factors such as stress and anxiety, leading to positive correlation. It became evident that the risk factors for disease are diverse, including the use of drugs, alcoholism, eating quickly, talking during meals, with significant relation to abdominal distension and reflux. The patients with the bacteria, had a higher risk of experiencing these symptoms. CONCLUSION Various etiological factors in eating habits and lifestyle, as smoking, alcoholism, anxiety, stress, associated diseases and inadequate nutrition, interact to the onset of clinical manifestations, and the presence and absence of H. pylori did not show significant changes in patient clinical status.