Gastritis

Gastritis is a mildirritation, inflammation or infection of the stomach lining. It may be suddenattack or chronic.

Signs and symptoms

Abdominal cramping andpain.

Nausea

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Fever

Loss of appetite

Belching or gas

Weakness

Gastritis Caused by:

Bacterial or Viralinfection (infection by virus is contagious).

Excess stomach acid causedby heavy smoking, alcohol use, caffeine, improper diet such as spicy, greasyfoods.

Use of drugs such asAspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, cortisone.

Stress

Preventing gastritis:

Eat regularly and moderately

Stop smoking

Limit or avoid alcohol andcaffeine

If possible avoid drugsthat are irritating to your stomach

Avoid foods that you don,tdigest easily

Treatment for gastritis:

For minor discomfort useantacids, don,t use Aspirin. Don,t eat solid foods on the first day of theattack, give your stomach rest and drink liquids only, milk or water arepreferred. Add bland foods to your diet slowly and as tolerated (cookedcereals, bananas, rice, potatoes, toast) and avoid greasy, spicy foods.

More severe causes mayrequire hospitalization, especially if you have blood in your bowels.