Stomach Inflammation (Gastritis): Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

Have you ever felt a burning sensation in your upper abdomen or noticed that your stomach hurts more after eating? These could be signs of stomach inflammation, also known as gastritis. This common condition occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes irritated, inflamed, or eroded—causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Because gastritis can develop suddenly or progress over time, understanding the warning signs is essential. At Curative GI, we help patients uncover the root cause of their discomfort and deliver care that goes beyond symptom relief—targeting the condition from the inside out.

Table of Contents:

1. What Is Gastritis?
2. Types of Gastritis
3. Common Symptoms of Gastritis
4. Causes and Risk Factors
5. How Gastritis Is Diagnosed
6. Effective Treatment Options
7. How to Prevent Gastritis
8. Final Thoughts
9. Disclaimer

1. What Is Gastritis?

To begin with, gastritis refers to the inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be short-term (acute gastritis) or long-lasting (chronic gastritis), and in more serious cases, it may even lead to ulcers or increase the risk of stomach cancer.

2. Types of Gastritis

Gastritis isn’t just one condition—it comes in several forms:

• Acute Gastritis: Comes on suddenly and may resolve quickly

• Chronic Gastritis: Develops gradually and can last for months or years

• Erosive Gastritis: Can wear away the stomach lining and may cause bleeding

Understanding which type you’re dealing with helps guide appropriate treatment.

3. Common Symptoms of Gastritis

Symptoms can vary, but generally include:

• Upper abdominal pain or burning sensation

• Nausea or vomiting

• Feeling full quickly after eating

• Loss of appetite

• Black, tarry stools (a sign of bleeding)

• Indigestion or bloating

In some cases, symptoms are mild and may go unnoticed—yet over time, they can become more severe without treatment.

4. Causes and Risk Factors

Next, let’s explore what might be behind your gastritis:

• Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

• Overuse of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin)

• Excessive alcohol use

• Stress—especially from major surgery or injury

• Autoimmune conditions, such as autoimmune gastritis

• Bile reflux or radiation exposure

While anyone can develop gastritis, certain lifestyle habits or medical conditions can increase your risk.

5. How Gastritis Is Diagnosed

When symptoms persist, proper diagnosis becomes crucial. At Curative GI, we may recommend:

• Physical examination and history review

• Blood tests to check for anemia or H. pylori

• Stool tests for infection

• Endoscopy to visually inspect the stomach lining

• Biopsy, if needed, during endoscopy

This thorough process allows us to identify not just the presence of inflammation, but also its root cause.

6. Effective Treatment Options

Fortunately, gastritis is often treatable once the cause is known. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to treat H. pylori

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

• Discontinuing NSAIDs or other irritants

• Antacids for quick relief

• Dietary changes, such as avoiding spicy, acidic, or greasy foods

Moreover, managing stress and alcohol intake plays a big role in preventing flare-ups.

7. How to Prevent Gastritis

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Avoid long-term use of NSAIDs unless advised by your doctor

• Limit alcohol and stop smoking

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals

• Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, or counseling

• Seek treatment for any H. pylori infection

By making these simple changes, you can protect your stomach lining and reduce the chance of recurrence.

8. Final Thoughts

Gastritis can disrupt your daily life, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether your symptoms are new or ongoing, Curative GI is here to help. Our compassionate team of specialists works closely with each patient to create a treatment plan that’s not only effective—but sustainable. If you’re experiencing stomach inflammation, don’t wait to get the answers and care you deserve.

9. Disclaimer:

This blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. For a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment, consult with the experts at Curative GI.