Health Encyclopedia

Stress gastritis

Definition

Stress gastritis is the sudden swelling of the stomach lining. It also causes ulcers and bleeding, and may occur after burns, shock, trauma, or severe illness.

Unlike the typical peptic ulcer, stress ulcers may first be recognized by gastrointestinal bleeding. The risk of stress gastritis and ulcers is highest in patients who are using a breathing machine in an intensive care unit.

Alternative Names

Stress ulcer

Treatment

Your doctor can best decide if you need medicines to avoid or treat stress gastritis. Patients usually get medicines to avoid stress gastritis if they are in the intensive care unit, or if they have bleeding disorders.

Review Date:10/13/2006
Reviewed By:Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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