gastritis

Overview
Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infection, chronic irritation, or certain medications. It can develop suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually over time (chronic gastritis). This condition affects the stomach’s ability to produce protective mucus, making the lining more vulnerable to digestive acids.

Why It’s Important
When left untreated, gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers, bleeding, or an increased risk of stomach cancer, especially with chronic cases. While often mild or asymptomatic, untreated or mismanaged gastritis can disrupt daily life with persistent discomfort and digestive issues. Early detection and dietary or medication adjustments can significantly improve symptoms and prevent complications.

Quick Facts

  • Affects people of all ages, though more common in adults

  • Estimated 8 out of 1,000 people develop acute gastritis each year

  • Can be acute or chronic

  • Often linked to H. pylori infection, NSAIDs, or excess alcohol

  • Common in those with autoimmune conditions or chronic stress

What Happens in the Body
The stomach lining normally secretes mucus to protect itself from digestive acids. When this lining is damaged or inflamed, acid can irritate the tissue, leading to pain and discomfort. Over time, chronic inflammation may cause erosion, ulcers, or cellular changes that increase cancer risk.

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

  • Bloating or feeling full quickly

  • Indigestion or belching

  • In severe cases: vomiting blood or black, tarry stools

Diagnosis

  • Medical history and physical exam

  • Upper endoscopy to view the stomach lining and take biopsies

  • H. pylori testing via breath, stool, or biopsy

  • Blood tests to assess anemia or immune-related causes

  • Stool tests to detect gastrointestinal bleeding
    See a doctor if:

  • You have persistent stomach pain, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss

  • Symptoms last more than a week or worsen

  • You notice bloody vomit or dark stools

Treatment and Management

  • Antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid

  • Antacids for temporary relief

  • Avoiding NSAIDs, alcohol, spicy foods, and smoking

  • Dietary changes to include bland, non-acidic meals

  • Management depends on the cause—autoimmune gastritis may need B12 supplementation

Risks and Complications

  • Stomach ulcers

  • Internal bleeding

  • Pernicious anemia (with autoimmune gastritis)

  • Stomach cancer (rare, but risk increases with chronic untreated inflammation)

Who Is at Risk

  • People who frequently take NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin)

  • Individuals with H. pylori infection

  • Those with alcohol use disorder

  • People under chronic stress

  • Individuals with autoimmune diseases or vitamin B12 deficiency

Related Conditions

  • Peptic ulcer disease

  • H. pylori infection

  • Stomach cancer

  • Autoimmune gastritis

  • GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)

When to See a Doctor

  • If you experience persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting

  • If symptoms interfere with eating or daily life

  • If you have unexplained weight loss, blood in vomit, or black stools

  • For testing if you have risk factors like NSAID use or known H. pylori exposure

Last Updated: June 28, 2025