The causes of gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, are varied and can stem from several factors.
Here's a breakdown of the common causes:
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Bacterial Infection: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacterium that infects the stomach lining and is a leading cause of gastritis and peptic ulcers.
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Regular Use of Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen can irritate the stomach lining with prolonged or excessive use.
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Older Age: The stomach lining thins with age, increasing the risk of H. pylori infection and autoimmune disorders, making older adults more susceptible to gastritis.
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Excessive Alcohol Use: Alcohol can erode and irritate the stomach lining, contributing to gastritis.
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Stress: Significant stress, whether physical (e.g., from surgery, burns, or severe illness) or psychological, can lead to gastritis.
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Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can damage the stomach lining, causing gastritis.
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Autoimmune Disorders: In some cases, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the cells in the stomach lining (autoimmune gastritis).
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Other Diseases and Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease, sarcoidosis, and viral infections, can increase the risk of gastritis.
In summary, gastritis can be caused by infection, medication, lifestyle factors, or underlying health conditions. Identifying the specific cause is important for effective treatment.
