$Unique_ID{BRK00566}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What is "Gastritis"?}
$Subject{stomach belching gastritis Digestive inflammation gastric mucosa
lining}
$Volume{I-10}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is "Gastritis"?


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QUESTION:  Whenever a co-worker burps or feels queasy, she claims it is a
serious case of "gastritis".  When we suggest that it is just gas or
indigestion, she insists that it is a disease she has suffered with from
childhood.  We have all checked our home medical advisors, but can't agree on
a diagnosis for her.  Can you define her gastritis for us?

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ANSWER:  Probably not.  The term is used in medicine to mean many things
depending upon your specialty and point of view.  Technically the definition
of gastritis is "an inflammation of the gastric mucosa" or stomach lining.
However, radiologists evaluating x-rays use the term to diagnose certain
changes observable in their pictures.  A pathologist would use the findings
seen in tissue samples, and a gastroenterologist would base his usage on
appearances seen through his gastroscope.  I can't make a better diagnosis
than you without a lot more information, and guess I would just call it "an
upset stomach" that apparently is upsetting a whole office staff.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.