What is gastritis

By Dr Ananya Mandal, MD
The term gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining, a condition that has many potential causes.
Gastritis may be acute or chronic. If the onset is severe and sudden, it is called acute gastritis and if it lasts
for a long time, it is called chronic gastritis. If left untreated, chronic gastritis may last for years. Erosive
gastritis includes inflammation as well as erosion or ulceration of the stomach lining. Bleeding may also
occur.
Acute gastritis may be caused by toxins, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and excessive
alcohol consumption. Other causes of acute gastritis include major surgery, trauma, burns or severe
infection. Acute gastritis may also occur as a result of bariatric (weight loss) procedures that involve banding
or reconstructing the digestive tract.
Long term or chronic gastritis can be caused by infections with bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori. Certain
diseases can also predispose to gastritis and these include chronic bile reflux, pernicious anemia and
autoimmune disorders. Excessive stress can also cause gastritis.
Some of the common symptoms of gastritis include:

Abdominal pain, especially in the upper abdomen

Indigestion

Abdominal bloating,

Nausea

Vomiting

Changes in bowel habits or abdominal upset

Diagnosis
Some examples of the steps taken to diagnose gastritis are described below:

A detailed history of the patients symptoms is obtained including their severity, frequency and any
possible triggers. The patient is also asked about any relevant lifestyle factors such as alcohol intake,
smoking, dietary habits and the use of medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

(NSAIDs).
A gastroscopy may be performed, which is a type of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The
procedure involves an endoscope being inserted into the patients stomach to examine the internal walls of
the esophagus and stomach. This procedure is often used to confirm a diagnosis. If metaplasia (precancerous changes) or gastric cancer is suspected, a biopsy sample may also be taken from the affected
area.

Blood tests may be carried out to check for Helicobacter pylori as well as to check blood cell counts
and the function of the liver, kidneys, gall bladder and pancreas.

A series of X-rays may be used to generate images to check the stomach, esophagus and small
intestine for any abnormalities. Also called a barium swallow, the procedure involves swallowing a contrast
medium containing barium, which highlights any abnormality during the imaging study.