Rising incidence of diagnosed duodenitis: causes, symptoms and treatment

What is duodenitis?

Duodenitis is an inflammation of the beginning of the small intestine (the duodenum). This crucial part of the digestive system lies directly after the stomach and is responsible for continuing the digestion and absorption of food. The condition can be acute, with a short duration, or chronic, lasting from several months to years. Recently, the perceived incidence of duodenitis has increased, particularly among older individuals.

Causes of duodenitis

Several factors can damage the mucosa of the duodenum and trigger an inflammatory response, including:

• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin
• Viral infections

Often, duodenitis occurs alongside other gastrointestinal diseases such as stomach inflammation or gallbladder inflammation. Additionally, stress and an unhealthy lifestyle significantly contribute to the onset and progression of the condition.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of duodenitis include abdominal pain, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. However, the disease may not always present clinical symptoms, making early detection through medical evaluation crucial.

Diagnosis

To diagnose duodenitis, doctors start by identifying symptoms and their nature, followed by a physical examination, particularly abdominal palpation. Subsequently, the doctor performs instrumental tests, with esophagogastroduodenoscopy being one of the most critical diagnostic procedures. This involves inserting a special tube with optics through the mouth into the intestine, allowing the doctor to observe duodenal changes and take samples for histological examination to establish an accurate diagnosis.

Prevalence and demographics

The perceived prevalence of duodenitis has increased across various demographics, although it is still more common in older individuals. The condition does not appear to discriminate based on race or gender. Factors such as stress, unhealthy eating habits, and increased use of NSAIDs have contributed to this perceived rise. There is no significant evidence suggesting seasonality affects its occurrence.

Treatment

The treatment strategy for duodenitis largely depends on its underlying cause:

• H. pylori Infection: Eradication through antibiotics.
• Medication Adjustment: Discontinuing NSAIDs and aspirin.
• Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding alcohol and coffee, managing stress.

Treatment might also include medications that reduce stomach acid secretion or neutralize their effects. Addressing concurrent gastrointestinal diseases is also essential for effective management.

Conclusion

Duodenitis, a condition with a perceived increase in incidence, is treatable with proper medical intervention. Early diagnosis and addressing the root cause can significantly improve patient outcomes, emphasizing the importance of medical evaluation for persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.