Prevention of gastritis depends upon the specific cause of the inflammation. Some ways to prevent gastritis are:
Depending on the cause of the gastritis, the long-term effects may vary. Untreated gastritis may lead to ulcers. Ulcers may cause severe and even life-threatening bleeding if not treated. Some forms of chronic or long-term gastritis are thought to increase the risk of stomach cancer. It is important that the cause of gastritis be identified and the appropriate treatment given to prevent these complications.
Viral and bacterial gastritis may be contagious. The other forms of gastritis generally pose no risk to others.