Gastritis (stomach inflammation)

Description An irritation, infl...

Description

An irritation, inflammation, erosion or infection of the stomach lining. It can be acute or chronic. Gastritis can be present with either a gastric erosion or gastric ulcer. An infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can increase the incidence and severity of the disease. The following conditions increase the risk of this disorder: drinking alcohol, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs / NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), smoking, and serious illness or stress (such as an infection or trauma).

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, black stools (melena), bloody stools, burning in chest. Gastritis may cause no symptoms.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Other tests to determine the extent of disease include: nasogastric tube lavage, rectal exam, EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), and blood tests.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Lipase, H. Pylori blood antibody test, Urea breath test (H. Pylori)

Other Specific Tests: Clotting studies, Type and screen, Gastric culture

Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Gastroenterology

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the illness and includes: proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole/Prilosec, pantoprazole/Protonix), H2 blockers (cimetidine/Tagamet, ranitidine/Zantac), and antibiotics if caused by H. pylori. For severe symptoms, bleeding or complications of gastritis, hospitalization may be recommended.