Gastritis
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Digestive system |
Stomach and stomach lining |
Definition
An inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
Causes
and risks
Gastritis can be caused by
infection, irritation, autoimmune disorders, or
backflow of bile into the stomach (bile reflux).
Infections can be bacterial or viral. Irritation
can be caused by medications (such as aspirin
or anti-inflammatory drugs), alcohol, chronic
vomiting, excess gastric acid secretion (such
as from stress), or eating or drinking caustic
or corrosive substances (such as poisons). Gastritis
can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually
(chronic gastritis).
Disorders associated with gastritis include:
- stress gastritis
- Helicobacter pylori gastritis (chronic gastritis)
- chronic gastritis
- acute gastritis
- autoimmune gastritis
Prevention
Avoid long-term use of irritants
(such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, alcohol).
Symptoms
- hiccups
- abdominal indigestion
- loss of appetite
- nausea
- vomiting
- vomiting blood or coffee-ground like material
- dark stools
Signs
and tests
Tests vary depending on the
specific cause. An upper GI X-ray, esophagogastroduodenoscopy
(EGD), or other tests may be advised.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the
specific cause. Some of the causes will resolve
over time. Medications to decrease stomach acid
secretion may be recommended.
Prognosis
The prognosis depends on
the cause but is usually good. |
