What is Gastritis?
Gastritis is a general term for a condition in which the lining of the stomach becomes red and inflamed. A gastritis attack may happen suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually (chronic gastritis). Gastritis can affect people of all ages and can have various causes.
What Causes Gastritis?
Gastritis can be caused by many factors including excessive alcohol consumption, eating spicing food, smoking, extreme stress, and long-term use of certain over-the-counter pain or fever medications (aspirin, NSAIDs, etc.).
Certain diseases or other health issues can also cause gastritis such as infections caused by certain bacteria or viruses, major surgery, traumatic injury or burns, autoimmune disorders, chronic bile reflux, or pernicious anemia.
What are the symptoms of Gastritis?
- Steady ache or pain in the upper abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- A feeling of fullness
- Loss of appetite
- Blood in your vomit or stool (which may indicate stomach lining bleeding)
What is the treatment for Gastritis?
For most people gastritis isn't serious and improves quickly with treatment. Your doctor may order certain tests to determine the cause and extent of the gastritis.
Depending on the specific cause of the gastritis, your doctor may recommend changes in diet or behaviors, or may prescribe medications such as:
- Antibiotics
- Antacids
- Acid blockers
- Proton pump inhibitors
It's important to note the symptoms of gastritis may be similar to other serious health problems. Always see your healthcare provider to be sure.