Gastritis.

Gastritis is classified as the inflammation or swelling of the stomach lining (mucosa). It can usually last a short time (acute gastritis) or months/years (chronic gastritis).

There a few causes of gastritis which are (Common-Least common):

• Consumption of certain medications (aspirin, AINS)
• Alchohol abuse
• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Drug abuse
• Stress

A patient which may experience the following symptoms:

• loss of appetite
• nausea (W/WO vomiting)
• Pain in epigastrium area

Depending on the severity of the gastritis the mucosa lining may be in all degenerated. Permitting the hydrochloric acid found in digestive juices to burn the stomach layers (Mucosa, Sub mucosa, Muscle). Thus causing a small erosion known as a gastric ulcer.

If stomach ulcers are present:

• Vomiting blood
• Black stools

Diagnosis:

• CBC
• Exam of the stomach with an endoscope
• H. pylori test
• Stool test (Erythrocytes)

Treatment of Gastritis all depends on the cause. The ingestion of AINS will be terminated since the aid in the destruction of the mucosa. Your physician may prescribe certain pharmacol.

• Antacids
• H2 antagonists
• Proton pump inhibitors

Prognosis:

All depending on the cause of the gastritis. but usually patients re-cooperate fairly well.