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Gastritis: Causes

What causes gastritis?

The most common cause of gastritis is H pylori infection. Other causes include acid reflux, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), alcohol use, and tobacco use, all of which can irritate the lining of the stomach. Severe illness and radiation therapy can also cause gastritis.

What are the risk factors for gastritis?

A number of factors increase the risk of developing gastritis. Not all people with risk factors will get gastritis. Risk factors for gastritis include:

  • Alcohol abuse
  • H pylori infection
  • History of radiation therapy
  • Prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), or aspirin
  • Stress or severe illness
  • Tobacco use
INTRODUCTION

What is gastritis?

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining resulting in abdominal pain, possible bleeding, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Gastritis can be acute, coming and going quickly, or chronic, in which case the disease can last months or even years. Gastritis can also be characterized as erosive, meaning that ... Read more about gastritis introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of gastritis?

Gastritis causes inflammation and swelling of the stomach lining that may result in a number of symptoms. The symptoms can vary in intensity among individuals.... Read more about gastritis symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is gastritis treated?

Treatment for gastritis begins with seeking medical care from your health care provider. To determine if you have gastritis, your health care provider may ask you to undergo diagnostic tests.... Read more about gastritis treatments

UP NEXT ›› Treatments
Medical Reviewer: All content has been reviewed by board-certified physicians under the direction of Rich Klasco, M.D., FACEP. Last Annual Review Date: May 2, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

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