Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa and is the most common pathologic condition of the

stomach. It may be acute or chronic, based on histologic criteria. Gastritis may be caused by exogenous or

endogenous factors. The exogenous factors that causes Gastritis are bacterial infections, especially staphylococcal

toxins, drugs; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (including aspirin), sulfonamides, steroids, alcohol, ingestion of

corrosive alkalies or acids, irritating foods, and radiation. The endogenous factors are certain infectious diseases:

typhoid fever, viral hepatitis, allergies, bile salts and pancreatic enzymes, severe disorders such as respiratory or renal

failure, sepsis, and major trauma. The symptoms of this disease depend on the cause of the gastritis and its severity.

Some gastritis is asymptomatic and requires no treatment. In other cases, anorexia is a common symptom. Some

persons have only mild gastric discomfort or pain; belching and defecation often relieve the symptoms. Other persons

have abdominal pain and severe nausea and vomiting, leading to severe dehydration that can have serious

consequences in infants and in elderly persons. Bleeding may occur in the form of hematemesis or melena (blood in

the stools). There may be a severe drop in the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. In gastritis caused by corrosive

acid or alkalies, there will be bloody vomits and stools, and hock may occur. Death may result secondary to blood

loss or perforation of a viscus. Those who recover will develop an obstruction. An endoscopy may confirm the

diagnosis. The treatment for this disease also depends on the severity of the disease. Mild gastritis can be treated

with an antacid and rest. Severe gastritis, intravenous replacement of fluid and electrolytes, and antiemetics such as

prochlorperazine (Compazine) or trimethobenzamide (Tigan) should be given. For erosive gastritis, antacids and

histamine H2 receptor antagonists should be supplied to inhibit gastric acid formation. Sucralfate (Carafate) is used

to coat the mucosa and prevent back-diffusion of acid and pepsin. Antibiotics is given to those who has Gastritis that

is caused by bacterial agents. For atrophic gastritis, Anticholinergics (for example, Pro-Banthine) and Vitamin B12

should be given.