Symptoms of gastritis can include aches or pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting or feelings of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating. Gastritis is marked by inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be the result of infection. Gastritis can also be caused by injury, regular use of pain killers and excess alcohol consumption.
While most cases of gastritis can heal easily over time, some cases, whether acute or chronic, can lead to other issues such as ulcers and higher risk of stomach cancer, states Mayo Clinic.
Some cases of gastritis do not result in any visible or noticeable symptoms. However, the most common symptoms include abdominal discomfort and pain that is evident in various forms. A burning or aching sensation in the upper abdomen, which might feel like indigestion, can be a sign of gastritis. This pain can improve or become worse after eating. Nausea and vomiting are also commonly associated with gastritis.
Since most cases of indigestion or stomach pains are no real cause for concern and eventually clear up without medical intervention, a patient should seek medical advice from a doctor if these symptoms occur for a week or more without subsiding. It should be mentioned to the doctor if these pains specifically occurred after taking pain medication. Those who experience blood in the stool or vomit should seek medical help immediately to determine the cause.
Treatment options for gastritis include taking antacids and proton pump inhibitors, which reduce stomach acid. A person with gastritis should avoid spicy foods. Vitamin B-12 shots treat gastritis that results from pernicious anemia. Avoiding irritating foods containing lactose and gluten helps in gastritis treatment, notes WebMD.
Gastritis risk factors include using common pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin regularly, old age, and autoimmune gastritis, which occurs when the body attacks the cells on the stomach lining. People with HIV/AIDS are also at a high risk of developing gastritis, according to Mayo Clinic.
