Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach, and has many possible causes.
The main acute causes are excessive
alcohol consumption or prolonged use of
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as
aspirin or
ibuprofen. Sometimes gastritis develops after major surgery, traumatic injury, burns, or severe infections. Gastritis may also occur in those who have had weight loss surgery resulting in the
banding or reconstruction of the digestive tract. Chronic causes are infection with bacteria, primarily
Helicobacter pylori, chronic
bile reflux, stress and certain
autoimmune disorders can cause gastritis as well. The most common symptom is abdominal upset or pain. Other symptoms are indigestion, abdominal bloating, nausea, and vomiting and
pernicious anemia. Some may have a feeling of fullness or burning in the upper abdomen.
A
gastroscopy, blood test, complete blood count test, or a stool test may be used to diagnose gastritis.
Treatment includes taking antacids or other medicines, such as
proton pump inhibitors or antibiotics, and avoiding hot or spicy foods. For those with
pernicious anemia, B12 injections are given.