A common cause of gastritis is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori),
a bacteria that can infect the stomach lining. In some people
it causes ulcers. An ulcer is a small hole in the lining of the
stomach or part of small intestine (duodenum).
Stomach ulcers can be very painful.
Gastritis can be caused by a number of other factors,
including:
• some medications (such as aspirin and ibuprofen)
• infections
• alcohol
• smoking
• coffee (and other caffeine drinks)
• anxiety or stress