Stomach inflammation

Description

Gastritis or stomach inflammation has symptoms such as Irritation, inflammation, erosion or infection of mucous membrane of the stomach. It can be acute or chronic. Gastritis can be with present gastric erosion or with gastric ulcer. The infections with bacteriaHelicobacter pylori (H. pylori) may increase the frequency and severity of the disease. Following conditions increase the risk for this disorder: alcohol consumption, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), smoking and severe diseases or stress (such as infections or traumas).

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, black stool (melena), bloody stool, burning sensation. Gastritis should not cause the symptoms.

Overview

Anamnesis and physical examination will be performed. Other tests for determination of the extent of disease include: naso gastric lavage, rectal examination, EGDS (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) and blood analysis.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis,electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) and lipase.

Additional analyses

Coagulation test, gastric aspirate analysis.

Specialists

General Practice, Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine

Therapy

Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and includes: proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole/Omeprol, pantoprazole/Panrazol), H2 blockers (ranitidine/Ranisan), and antibiotics if caused by H. pylori. For severe symptoms, bleeding or complications of gastritis, hospitalization may be recommended.