Gastritis is the inflammation of the lining of the stomach, which is the protective mucous layer that shields the stomach from digestive acids and enzymes. This inflammation can be sudden and short-lived (acute gastritis) or develop gradually and persist over time (chronic gastritis)
Causes of Gastritis
Gastritis can be caused by various factors, including:
- Infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which is a common cause worldwide
- Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking and extreme stress
- Autoimmune disorders where the immune system attacks the stomach lining
- Other causes include viral infections, bile reflux, major surgery, traumatic injury, and certain diseases
Symptoms of Gastritis
Symptoms vary but commonly include:
- Upper abdominal pain or discomfort, often described as burning or gnawing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating
- Belching, hiccups, loss of appetite, and indigestion
- In severe cases, blood in vomit or black, tarry stools indicating bleeding in the stomach lining
Types of Gastritis
- Acute gastritis: sudden onset, often due to infections or irritants.
- Chronic gastritis: long-lasting inflammation that may lead to complications like ulcers or increased risk of stomach cancer
- Erosive gastritis: a form that can cause stomach lining erosion and bleeding
Treatment and Management
Treatment depends on the cause but may include:
- Avoiding irritants such as alcohol, NSAIDs, and smoking.
- Medications like antacids, proton pump inhibitors, or H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid
- Antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori infection if present
- Vitamin B12 supplements if autoimmune gastritis causes deficiency
In summary, gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining caused by infections, irritants, or autoimmune processes, presenting with symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, and indigestion, and treated by addressing the underlying cause and reducing stomach acid
