Gastritis corresponds to a inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammatory disease can be acute ou chronic. It can indeed appear suddenly, heartburn or digestive difficulties disappearing within a few days. It can also come back regularly and evolve over several years. 

Usually not serious, gastritis can be caused byalcohol, pharmaceuticals or to bacterium which survives the acidity of the stomach,Helicobacter pylori. The latter, present in the lining of the stomach, can be responsible for a stomach ulcer. Gastritis can also increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. But in most cases, gastritis remains a disease that heals quickly. 

Role of the stomach lining

The lining of the stomach protects the lining of this organ from acidic secretions produced during digestion. It acts as a barrier. Without protection, the stomach wall would be attacked and then hollowed out by the various substances produced by the body to digest food. a ulcer would inevitably result from these acid attacks. 

The causes

They are not always known. But many parameters or diseases can weaken the lining of the stomach and increase the risk of developing gastritis. Acute gastritis can thus be due to a drug, in particular to a Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) taken over a long period of time or corticosteroid, for an stress or theanxiety. Is chronic gastritis frequently caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. Letabac or thealcohol may also be responsible for its occurrence. Other, less frequent causes exist. Mention may be made of bile reflux or autoimmune gastritis, whether or not associated with other autoimmune diseases such as Biermer’s disease.

The diagnosis

It is based on the symptoms described by the affected person but especially on an endoscopy of the digestive tract. This exam allows the doctor to visualize the lining of the stomach. A tube containing the endoscope is inserted into the throat, esophagus and stomach. Thus inflammation can be detected and evaluated.

A sample (biopsy) of the gastric mucosa can confirm the diagnosis and sometimes determine the cause of the gastritis. A blood test is often advised.  

Possible complications

Chronic gastritis can increase your risk of developing an ulcer or developing stomach cancer.