Gastritis

What is gastritis?

Gastritis is inflammation of the gastric mucosa — the protective lining of the stomach. When this lining becomes irritated or damaged, the stomach becomes vulnerable to its own acid, causing the pain and discomfort characteristic of the condition. Acute gastritis develops suddenly, often following NSAID use, alcohol, or a viral illness. Chronic gastritis develops gradually, most commonly due to H. pylori infection or long-term NSAID use, and may persist for years with minimal symptoms.

Symptoms

• Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often worse after eating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling of fullness or bloating after small meals
• Loss of appetite
• Belching or indigestion
• In erosive gastritis: black or tarry stools or vomiting blood — seek urgent care if these occur

Causes & risk factors

• H. pylori infection — the most common cause of chronic gastritis worldwide, treatable with antibiotics
• Regular use of NSAIDs — aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen damage the stomach lining with prolonged use
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Stress — major physical stress such as surgery, burns, or critical illness can cause acute stress gastritis
• Autoimmune gastritis — the immune system attacks stomach lining cells, leading to vitamin B12 deficiency
• Bile reflux — bile flowing back into the stomach from the small intestine

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if stomach pain is persistent, severe, or recurring — or if symptoms are not improving with over-the-counter antacids. Testing for H. pylori is important, as untreated infection can lead to peptic ulcers and in rare cases stomach cancer over many years.

Treatment options

• H. pylori eradication therapy — a short course of two antibiotics plus a PPI, highly effective at clearing the infection
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) — reduce stomach acid production and allow the lining to heal
• H2 blockers — an alternative acid-reducing medication
• Antacids — for short-term symptom relief
• Stopping or reducing NSAIDs — switching to a safer alternative where possible
• Dietary adjustments — avoiding spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine during recovery

How eMedClinic can help

Our doctors assess gastritis symptoms, arrange H. pylori testing, prescribe eradication therapy and acid-suppressing medication, and advise on dietary and lifestyle modifications. We also provide follow-up to confirm successful H. pylori eradication where required.