Gastritis

General Information on Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. The inflammation may cause pain, swelling, redness, and heat. Most cases of gastritis are caused by a reaction to an infection, injury, or irritation. Alcohol abuse and over use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aspirin. Surgical complications may also increase the risk of developing gastritis. Gastritis may onset suddenly or gradually develop over time.

Symptoms of Gastritis

Symptoms of gastritis include:

Stomach pain
Abdominal cramps
Appetite loss
Black stool (caused by stomach bleeding)
Bloody vomit (caused by stomach bleeding)
Fever
Weakness
Swollen stomach
Acidic taste in the mouth
Sharp, dull, or uncomfortable pain in chest
Mild nausea
Diarrhea (rare)
Belching
Gas

Treatments For Gastritis

Your doctor will perform a physical examination. Diagnosis is made through an endoscopy and/or passing a tube through throat and into the stomach in order to obtain a biopsy for examination. Additional tests may include blood or stool studies.

The primary aim of treatment is to address the underlying cause of the inflammation, remove the irritant, and relieve the severity of the symptoms. Drug therapy with medications such as antacids, antibiotics, and pain relievers. DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN. Aspirin may cause severe damage and increase the risk of complications. For complications such as severe bleeding, hospital care may be necessary. If the cause is removed, the condition is almost always curable within a week or so. If you are experiencing symptoms similar to those listed above, contact your doctor for further examination.

Personal Experience

Gastritis - personal experiences