Acute Gastritis
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Overview
Plain-Language Overview
Acute Gastritis is a sudden inflammation of the stomach lining, which is part of the digestive system. It can cause stomach pain, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. This condition happens when the protective layer of the stomach is damaged, often due to factors like infection, certain medications, or excessive alcohol use. The inflammation can make it harder for the stomach to function properly, leading to discomfort and digestive issues. If untreated, it may lead to more serious problems like stomach ulcers or bleeding.
Clinical Definition
Acute Gastritis is defined as the rapid onset of inflammation of the gastric mucosa, typically caused by disruption of the mucosal barrier. Common etiologies include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), alcohol, stress-related mucosal injury, and infection with Helicobacter pylori. The pathophysiology involves damage to the protective mucus layer, leading to exposure of the epithelium to gastric acid and subsequent inflammation. Clinically, it presents with epigastric pain, nausea, and sometimes hematemesis. The condition is significant because it can progress to erosive gastritis or gastric ulceration, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia.