Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach. There are two kinds of gastritis:
Acute gastritis. This kind develops suddenly.
Chronic gastritis. This kind lasts for a long time.
Gastritis happens when the lining of the stomach becomes weak or gets damaged. Without treatment, gastritis can lead to stomach bleeding and ulcers.
What are the causes?
This condition may be caused by:
An infection.
Certain types of medicines. These include steroids, antibiotics, and some over-the-counter medicines, such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Poisons.
Stress.
A disease of the intestine or stomach.
A disease in which the body's immune system attacks the body (autoimmune disease).
Having too much acid in the stomach
Sometimes, the cause of gastritis is not known.
What are the signs or symptoms? …show more content…
In severe cases, children may vomit red or coffee-colored blood or pass stools that are bright red or black.
How is this diagnosed?
This condition is diagnosed with a medical history, a physical exam, or tests. Tests may include:
A breath test.
Blood tests.
A test in which a sample of tissue is taken for testing (biopsy).
A test in which a thin, flexible instrument with a light and camera on the end is passed down the esophagus and into the stomach (upper endoscopy).
Stool tests.
Imaging tests.
How is this treated?
Treatment depends on the cause of your child's gastritis. If your child has a bacterial infection, he or she may be prescribed antibiotic medicine and medicines to decrease the amount of stomach acid. If your child's gastritis is caused by too much acid in the stomach, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, or antacids may be given. Your child's health care provider may recommend that you stop giving your child certain medicines, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs.
Follow these instructions at home:
If your child was prescribed an antibiotic, give it as told by your health care provider. Do not stop giving the antibiotic even if your child starts to feel