Fact 8: Potential Complications
While stress-induced gastritis might sound benign, left unchecked, it can cascade into a series of complications. The body’s resilience has limits, and consistently inflamed stomach lining will eventually start showing signs of wear and tear. Recognizing these potential pitfalls is key to averting them.
Persistent gastritis can lead to ulcers, which are painful sores on the stomach lining. These ulcers not only exacerbate the pain and discomfort but also pose a risk of bleeding. In some severe cases, they can perforate the stomach, a medical emergency that demands immediate attention.
One of the more ominous complications of stress-induced gastritis is gastric bleeding. If the inflammation erodes the stomach lining, blood vessels might get damaged in the process, leading to bleeding. This manifests in various ways, from blood-streaked vomit to black, tarry stools.
In the long run, chronic inflammation of the stomach lining increases the risk of stomach cancer. While not a direct, linear progression, the constant state of inflammation can set the stage for malignant changes. It’s a sobering reminder of the importance of timely intervention.
Chronic gastritis can impact the stomach’s function, leading to issues with digestion. The stomach might produce less acid, enzymes, or other essential substances, hampering the digestion process. This can manifest as bloating, indigestion, and other gastrointestinal discomforts. (8)
