G
astritis – is a broad term that is associated with
inflammation of the lining of the stomach and
can be acute or chronic. Waugh and Grant (2006)
suggest that this is a common condition and occurs when
there is either too much gastric acid in the stomach or not
enough mucus to protect the surface of the stomach.
Gastritis is more common in older people but can
occur at any age with varying degrees of severity. It occurs
equally in both sexes. If left untreated some forms of
gastritis can have serious ramifications for the person and
may lead to haematemesis, shock and death.