Gastritis


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Gastritis


Gastritis is inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by some medications (such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications), overuse of alcohol, bacterial infection, or stomach acid. Symptoms of gastritis include pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, bloating, nausea, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.

Almost everyone has an occasional bout of gastritis. Antacids or stomach acid blockers may help to control the discomfort. Usually home treatment is all that is needed to treat occasional gastritis. If gastritis occurs over and over, a visit to a health professional is needed. Severe gastritis can cause serious bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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