Gastritis

Age 60 and olderNSAID useHeavy alcohol usePernicious anemiaDiseases of the lymph system Severe illness, such as can occur with: SurgeryHead injuryRespiratory failureKidney failureLiver failure Symptoms Symptoms include: Stomach painIndigestionBurpingHiccupingLoss of appetiteNausea and vomitingBloody or black vomitDark black, tarry stools DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.Tests may include:Upper GI Series (Barium Swallow) a series of x-rays of the upper digestive system taken after drinking a barium solution Endoscopy a thin, lighted tube inserted down the throat and into the stomach to examine the inside of the stomach Biopsy removal of a sample of stomach tissue to examine in a lab. Blood, breath, or stool teststo check for infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori Upper GI Endoscopy 2008 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc. TreatmentTreatment may include: Medications These include: Antacids H 2 blockers Proton pump inhibitors Antibiotics to treat Helicobacter pylori infection Prevention To help prevent gastritis:

Avoid alcoholDo not smokeAsk your doctor if any of the medications you are taking might be irritating your stomach. You might need to change medications or you might need to take another medication to coat and protect your stomach lining.If you notice that certain foods (spicy foods, for example) are irritating, stop eating them. Some people feel better when they eat a bland diet. RESOURCES: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disordershttp://www.niddk.nih.gov The American Gastroenterological Associationhttp://www.gastro.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: Health Canadahttp://www.hc-sc.gc.ca The Canadian Association of Gastroenterologyhttp://www.cag-acg.org References: Cecil Textbook of Medicine . 21st ed. WB Saunders Company; 2000. Conn's Current Therapy 2001 . 53rd ed. WB Saunders Company; 2001. Primary Care Medicine . 4th ed. Lippincott, Williams, and Wilkins; 2000. Last reviewed November 2007 by Daus Mahnke, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.