Gastritis

Gastritis is the inflammation of the lining of the stomach. It may occur as a short episode or have a long duration. There may be no symptoms, but the most common symptom is upper abdominal pain. Other symptoms include nausea and vomiting, bloating, indigestion, loss of appetite and heartburn. Complications may include stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, and stomach tumors. Autoimmune atrophic gastritis may lead to issues including pernicious anemia. Common causes include infection with Helicobacter pylori and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Other causes include alcohol, smoking, cocaine, severe illness, autoimmune problems, radiation therapy and Crohn's disease. Endoscopy, a type of X-ray known as an upper gastrointestinal series, blood tests, and stool tests may help with diagnosis. Other conditions with similar symptoms include inflammation of the pancreas, gallbladder problems, and peptic ulcer disease. Prevention involves avoidance of things which irritate the gut and which trigger symptoms, including alcohol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tobacco, and certain foods. It is also recommended to treat for any underlying H. pylori infection before starting NSAID treatment to prevent irritation and gastroduodenal ulcers. Treatment includes medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. During an acute flare-up, drinking viscous lidocaine may help. If gastritis is caused by NSAID use (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), usage may be ceased. If H. pylori is present, it may be treated with a combination of antibiotics such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin. For those with pernicious anemia, vitamin B12 supplements are recommended by injection. Gastritis is believed to be present in 30% to 50% of people worldwide, but most cases are asymptomatic. In 2013, there were approximately 90 million new cases of the condition. The risk of developing gastritis increases as one ages. Gastritis, along with a similar condition in the first part of the intestines called duodenitis,...