Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Gastritis occurs when the normal protective mechanisms in the stomach are overwhelmed and damage occurs to the stomach lining. The lining of the stomach becomes irritated and inflamed. Gastritis may occur suddenly, which is called acute gastritis, or develop gradually over a long period of time, which is called chronic gastritis. Prevention of gastritis depends upon the specific cause of the inflammation.
Healthcare providers use several methods to diagnose and classify different kinds of gastritis.
This is usually done after the person swallows a liquid called barium. Depending on the cause of the gastritis, the long-term effects may vary. Untreated gastritis may lead to ulcers. Ulcers may cause severe and even life-threatening bleeding if not treated. Some forms of chronic or long-term gastritis are thought to increase the risk of stomach cancer .