Overview
Gastritis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach, which can come on suddenly or build up slowly over months. It causes a burning or gnawing pain in the upper belly, often worse on an empty stomach or after spicy food. Most cases settle with simple acid-reducing medicines and diet changes, but long-standing gastritis linked to a stomach bug or painkillers needs proper treatment.
Symptoms
- Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen
- Feeling full quickly or bloated after meals
- Nausea or occasional vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Belching and discomfort worsened by spicy or oily food
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if pain is severe or lasts more than a week, or if you vomit blood or pass black, tarry stools.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Vomiting blood, or black tarry stools with dizziness — signs of stomach bleeding, go to a hospital immediately
Causes
Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, frequent use of painkillers like ibuprofen, heavy alcohol use, smoking and stress.