Cause 6: Gastritis
Gastritis is an inflammation, erosion, or irritation of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly or develop slowly over time. Like many gastrointestinal issues, the causes can vary widely. Factors range from infections, bile reflux, regular use of pain relievers, and excessive alcohol consumption to stress and certain autoimmune disorders.
Symptoms of gastritis can sometimes be non-specific and mimic other digestive disorders. Common signs include an upset or burning feeling in the belly, nausea or vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating. In more severe cases, gastritis can cause bleeding in the stomach, which might manifest as blood in the stool or vomit.
When addressing gastritis, treatments focus on the underlying cause. If it’s due to an H. pylori infection, antibiotics combined with medications that reduce stomach acid can be prescribed. If aspirin or other NSAIDs are the culprits, switching to another pain reliever might be suggested.(6)
