Gastritis is the inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining, which can lead to abdominal pain, indigestion, nausea, and other digestive issues. It can range from mild irritation to more severe conditions and may be caused by various factors. Helicobacter Pylori (H Pylori) is the most common cause. Excessive use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) or alcohol are additional common causes.
In addition to the acute and chronic forms, this condition can be divided into types based on how it affects the protective lining of your stomach.
Doctors may also identify gastritis by what causes it, such as:
Gastritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While some cases are mild and may go unnoticed, chronic gastritis can lead to more serious health complications, including stomach ulcer or an increased risk of stomach cancer.
Mild cases of Gastritis may resolve with time and lifestyle changes, but persistent or severe cases require medical treatment to avoid complications. You may lower your risk of getting gastritis by:
It’s best to avoid spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus. These can irritate the stomach lining and worsen symptoms.
Diagnosis often involves endoscopy to examine the stomach lining, as well as tests for H. pylori infection or other underlying causes.
While mild Gastritis can be manageable, chronic Gastritis can lead to serious complications such as stomach ulcers or an increased risk of stomach cancer if left untreated.
Yes, severe stress from illness, injury, or surgery can contribute to the development of acute Gastritis, especially when combined with other factors.
The most common symptoms of Gastritis include stomach pain, hiccups, abdominal bleeding, nausea, burning in the stomach, loss of appetite, and blood in your vomit or stool.
The symptoms of Gastritis may look like other health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
Gastritis can raise your risk for other health problems such as peptic ulcer disease, gastric polyps, and stomach tumors.
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