Understanding Gastritis

The stomach

To digest the food you eat, your stomach makes strong acids and enzymes. These don't harm the lining of a healthy stomach. But acids may irritate the lining when the stomach doesn't work as it should. That's called gastritis.

Causes of gastritis

This problem has many causes. They may include:

• Aspirin and other pain medicines called NSAIDs.

• Tobacco use.

• Alcohol use.

• H. pylori bacteria.

• Trauma from injuries, burns, or major surgery.

• Cocaine use.

• Radiation.

• Serious illness or autoimmune disorders.

Common symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• A burning feeling in your upper belly.

• Pain after eating certain foods.

• Gas or a bloated feeling.

• Frequent belching.

• Nausea with or without vomiting.

• Loss of appetite.

• Feeling full quickly.

• Blood in vomit.

• Stools that look black and tarry.

• Paleness.

• Tiredness (fatigue).