Gastritis primarily affects the stomach. More specifically, it involves inflammation of the stomach lining, also known as the mucosa.
Understanding Gastritis and Its Impact
Gastritis refers to a condition where the stomach lining becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by various factors, including:
- Infection: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacterial infection that can cause gastritis.
- Long-term use of NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can irritate the stomach lining with prolonged use.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can erode the stomach lining, leading to inflammation.
- Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to gastritis.
- Autoimmune disorders: In some cases, the body's immune system attacks the stomach lining.
- Bile reflux: Backflow of bile into the stomach can irritate the lining.
While gastritis directly impacts the stomach, chronic or severe gastritis can indirectly affect other systems in the body due to malabsorption or complications. For instance, prolonged gastritis can lead to:
- Anemia: Due to impaired absorption of iron or vitamin B12.
- Peptic ulcers: Open sores that can develop in the stomach lining.
- Increased risk of stomach cancer: In rare cases, chronic atrophic gastritis can increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Therefore, while gastritis's primary target is the stomach, its long-term consequences can have wider systemic effects.
