Gastritis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the stomach. If pain is detected, it is usually in the upper central part of the abdomen, and might spread to the left upper part of the abdomen and to the back. When the inflammation gets worse, nausea and vomiting might be present.


Gastritis is caused by acute or chronic exposure to chemicals that irritate the inner lining of the stomach. Substances that increase the production of hydrochloric acid might additionally contribute to the condition.
Helicobacter pylori are bacteria that might cause gastritis for a brief period if it is multiplied enough. Taking certain medications that include antibiotics might reduce the bacteria or completely eradicate them.
If not treated properly, gastritis might cause serious complications like ulcers or even cancer in the distant future.


You might want to visit your family doctor for a physical examination. Laboratory tests for Helicobacter pylori might be needed to confirm its presence or to rule it out. In chronic inflammation of the stomach, an x-ray of the stomach might be needed to see if the inflammation has already damaged the mucosa and caused an ulcer.


The treatment includes avoiding the substances that irritate the gastric mucosa like: alcohol, coffee, and spicy food.


Taking antacids might reduce the overproduction of hydrochloric acid. The Helicobacter pylori is usually treated with a combination of two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor.