Gastritis

Definition Return to top

Gastritis is an inflammation (swelling) of the lining of the stomach.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top

There are many causes of gastritis.

The most common are:

Alcohol
Erosion (loss) of the protective layer of the stomach lining
Infection of the stomach with Helicobacter pylori bacteria
Medications (such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs)
Smoking
Less common causes are:

Autoimmune disorders (such as pernicious anemia)
Backflow of bile into the stomach (bile reflux)
Eating or drinking caustic or corrosive substances (such as poisons)
Excess gastric acid secretion (such as from stress)
Viral infection, especially in people with a weak immune system
Gastritis can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually (chronic gastritis).

Symptoms Return to top

Abdominal pain
Abdominal indigestion
Dark stools
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Vomiting
Vomiting blood or coffee-ground like material

source:www.nlm.nih.gov