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Gastritis
Mild
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It may develop suddenly or persist for a long time. Common causes include infection with Helicobacter pylori, regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alcohol use, and other conditions that irritate or damage the stomach lining. Some people have no symptoms, while others develop upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, or a feeling of fullness. Persistent symptoms or bleeding require medical evaluation because untreated gastritis may sometimes lead to ulcers or other complications.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Gastritis usually does not require emergency care. Seek prompt medical assessment for persistent or severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, dizziness, fainting, or symptoms suggesting significant bleeding. Heavy bleeding or fainting requires emergency care.
Symptoms
3
Causes
4
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It may develop suddenly or persist for a long time. Common causes include infection with Helicobacter pylori, regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alcohol use, and other conditions that irritate or damage the stomach lining. Some people have no symptoms, while others develop upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, or a feeling of fullness. Persistent symptoms or bleeding require medical evaluation because untreated gastritis may sometimes lead to ulcers or other complications.
Symptoms 3
Lower Abdominal Pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Causes 4
Gastritis has several possible causes. Helicobacter pylori infection is a common cause of chronic gastritis. Regular or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can weaken the stomach lining and promote inflammation. Heavy alcohol use can also irritate the stomach. Other causes include autoimmune gastritis, severe physical stress from serious illness or injury, bile reflux, and certain infections or medical treatments. In some cases, the exact cause is not immediately clear and additional testing may be needed.
Alcohol
Infection
Smoking
Stress
Risk Factors
Risk factors for gastritis include Helicobacter pylori infection, frequent or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heavy alcohol consumption, older age, autoimmune disorders, and severe physical stress from major illness or injury. Previous stomach problems and certain medical treatments may also increase risk. The likelihood depends on the underlying cause. Not everyone with a risk factor develops gastritis, and symptoms may be absent even when inflammation is present.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis of gastritis begins with a medical history and physical examination, including review of symptoms, medicines, alcohol use, and possible H. pylori exposure. Testing may include stool or breath tests for H. pylori and blood tests when appropriate. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy may be recommended when symptoms are persistent, severe, recurrent, or associated with warning signs such as bleeding or unexplained weight loss. During endoscopy, tissue samples may be collected to examine the stomach lining and identify inflammation or other abnormalities.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Some forms of gastritis can be prevented or their risk reduced by avoiding unnecessary use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and discussing safer alternatives with a healthcare professional when long-term pain treatment is needed
Limiting heavy alcohol use can reduce stomach irritation
Good hygiene and appropriate food and water practices may reduce exposure to H
pylori in settings where infection is common
People with persistent digestive symptoms should seek evaluation rather than repeatedly treating symptoms without identifying the cause
Prevention Guidance
Some forms of gastritis can be prevented or their risk reduced by avoiding unnecessary use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and discussing safer alternatives with a healthcare professional when long-term pain treatment is needed. Limiting heavy alcohol use can reduce stomach irritation. Good hygiene and appropriate food and water practices may reduce exposure to H. pylori in settings where infection is common. People with persistent digestive symptoms should seek evaluation rather than repeatedly treating symptoms without identifying the cause.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Banana
Gentle on the stomach and easy to digest.
Oatmeal
May reduce stomach irritation.
Boiled Vegetables
Easy to digest and nutritious.
Curd
May support digestive health.
Foods to Avoid
Spicy Foods
May irritate stomach lining.
Alcohol
Can worsen gastritis symptoms.
Excess Coffee
May increase stomach acid.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining.
Symptoms include stomach pain, nausea, bloating, and indigestion.
Common causes include H. pylori infection, alcohol, and NSAID medicines.
Diagnosis may involve endoscopy and laboratory tests.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and unnecessary NSAID use.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.