MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It can come on suddenly (acute) or build up over time (chronic), causing an upset or burning stomach.
Causes & risk factors
- H. pylori bacterial infection
- Regular use of painkillers (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
- Alcohol and smoking
- Stress from serious illness or surgery
- Spicy food and irregular meals (aggravating factors)
- Autoimmune conditions (less common)
Common symptoms
- Burning or gnawing upper tummy pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and fullness after eating
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Loss of appetite
- Black stools (if bleeding)
Tests & diagnosis
- Upper GI endoscopy with biopsy
- H. pylori test (breath, stool or biopsy)
- CBC (to check for anaemia)
- Vitamin B12 (in chronic gastritis)
Treatment & management
- Treat the cause — clear H. pylori with a doctor-prescribed course if present
- Stop or reduce NSAID painkillers, alcohol and smoking
- Acid-reducing medicines such as proton-pump inhibitors or antacids
- Eat small, regular, non-irritating meals
- Manage stress
When to see a doctor urgently
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground material
- Black, tarry or bloody stools
- Severe or persistent tummy pain
- Unexplained weight loss
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about gastritis. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is gastritis the same as acidity?
Not exactly. "Acidity" is a general term for acid symptoms; gastritis specifically means the stomach lining is inflamed, which a doctor can confirm on endoscopy.
Can gastritis be cured?
Yes, most cases settle once the cause is treated — for example clearing H. pylori or stopping NSAIDs — along with acid-reducing medicine.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.