 Health Guide Drug Guide Images Gastritis - chronicDefinitionChronic gastritis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach that persists for a long time. Alternative NamesChronic gastritis CausesChronic gastritis may be caused by prolonged irritation from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, pernicious anemia (an autoimmune disorder), degeneration of the lining of the stomach from age, or chronic bile reflux. Symptoms
Many people with chronic gastritis have no symptoms of the condition. Exams and Tests
TreatmentTreatment depends on the specific cause. Some of the causes will disappear over time. Medications known to cause gastritis should be discontinued. Medications to neutralize stomach acid or decrease its production will usually eliminate the symptoms and promote healing. Antibiotics are used to treat chronic gastritis caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori. Gastritis caused by pernicious anemia is treated with vitamin B12. Outlook (Prognosis)The outlook depends on the cause, but is usually good. Possible ComplicationsLoss of blood and increased risk of gastric cancer are potential complications. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your health care provider if symptoms of gastritis do not improve with treatment. Call your health care provider if you are vomiting blood or producing bloody stools. PreventionAvoid use of aspirin or NSAIDs if you are prone to gastritis. ReferencesKuipers, E. Acid peptic disease. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 141.
Review Date:
1/28/2009 Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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