GASTRITIS
Erosive gastritis.
Image of a patient with
Helicobacter
pylori infection, showing erosive pyloric antrum and
prepyloric fold thickness.
Photo courtesy of
Dr. Fernando Lazo.
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It is classified according to two forms: acute or chronic.
Symptoms
Gastritis can present with no symptoms at all or may bring a variety of stomach-related problems. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Burning sensation in the upper abdomen
- Nausea
- Belching
- Feeling bloated
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
Causes
Acute gastritis typically is caused by prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprophen, or the excessive consumption of alcohol. NSAIDs used over a short period of time do not typically pose any danger for most patients, but prolonged use can cause problems. Acute gastritis also can be a bi-product of major surgery, traumatic injury, or severe infection.
Chronic gastritis is caused by a bacterial infection known as Helicobacter pylori. Treatment requires the use of antibiotics. Chronic gastritis also can be caused by other medical conditions, such HIV/AIDS, Crohn's disease, connective tissue disorders, and liver or kidney failure.
Additional Information about Gastritis
Gastritis from the National Institutes of Health (USA)
Gastritis from the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House
American Gastroenterological Association
Related Topics
Gastroenteritis
Esophagitis
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Hypochlorhydria
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