Causes of Gastritis
Gastritis refers to inflammation of the lining of the stomach. This condition can be caused by various factors, ranging from infections to lifestyle habits. Understanding the causes of gastritis is essential for both prevention and effective treatment. Here, we explore the primary causes of gastritis in detail:
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Helicobacter pylori Infection: One of the most common causes of gastritis worldwide is infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria. These bacteria colonize the stomach lining and trigger an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation. H. pylori infection is often acquired during childhood and can persist for many years if not treated with antibiotics.
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Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Regular use of NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can irritate the stomach lining and cause gastritis. These medications inhibit enzymes that protect the stomach lining from acid, leading to increased susceptibility to damage and inflammation.
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Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining directly, leading to acute or chronic gastritis. Chronic alcohol use can weaken the stomach’s protective mechanisms and increase vulnerability to inflammation.
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Stress: While acute stress may not directly cause gastritis, it can exacerbate existing inflammation or predispose individuals to developing gastritis through mechanisms like increased stomach acid production or impaired mucosal defense.
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Autoimmune Reactions: In some cases, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the cells of the stomach lining, leading to autoimmune gastritis. This condition can result in damage to the stomach’s mucosal barrier and chronic inflammation.
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Bile Reflux: When bile from the intestine flows backward into the stomach, it can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to gastritis. Bile reflux gastritis is often associated with conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or surgery affecting the pyloric valve.
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Infections Other Than H. pylori: Apart from H. pylori, other infections can also cause gastritis. Viral infections, fungal infections (rare), and parasitic infections can lead to inflammation of the stomach lining, although they are less common than bacterial causes.
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Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress can impact various bodily functions, including digestion. It may contribute to the development or worsening of gastritis by affecting the immune system, increasing stomach acid production, or altering gastric motility.
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Smoking: Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that can weaken the stomach’s protective lining and increase the production of stomach acid, thereby contributing to the development of gastritis.
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Severe Illness or Injury: Major surgery, traumatic injuries, severe burns, or critical illnesses can stress the body and increase the risk of developing stress-related gastritis. These conditions may lead to decreased blood flow to the stomach lining or impair its protective mechanisms.
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Certain Medical Conditions: Individuals with conditions such as Crohn’s disease, sarcoidosis, and other autoimmune disorders may have an increased risk of developing gastritis due to underlying systemic inflammation or immune dysfunction.
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Older Age: As individuals age, the stomach lining may become more vulnerable to damage and inflammation, increasing the likelihood of developing gastritis.
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Radiation Therapy: Patients undergoing radiation therapy for cancer treatment, particularly when directed near the abdomen or stomach, may experience inflammation of the stomach lining as a side effect of the treatment.
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Chemical Irritants: Exposure to certain chemicals or toxic substances can irritate the stomach lining and lead to acute gastritis. This can occur in occupational settings or accidental exposures.
Understanding these diverse causes of gastritis underscores the importance of addressing both the underlying factors and symptoms for effective management and prevention. Treatment approaches often involve addressing the specific cause, such as antibiotics for H. pylori infection, discontinuing NSAID use, modifying lifestyle habits, and sometimes using medications to reduce stomach acid or protect the stomach lining. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help prevent complications and improve outcomes for individuals with gastritis.