Introduction: Gastritis Is More Common Than You Think
Gastritis occurs when the lining of your stomach becomes inflamed. Millions of people experience burning pain, acidity, and indigestion, but very few understand that these symptoms could be early warning signs of chronic gastritis.
If left untreated, gastritis can lead to ulcers, bleeding, and even stomach cancer.
At BariOSS Clinic, Tirunelveli, Dr. Christopher S.K. provides advanced diagnostic endoscopy and expert treatment for all types of gastritis.
What Is Gastritis?
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be:
✔ Acute – sudden, severe ✔ Chronic – long-lasting inflammation
Both require medical evaluation.
Main Causes of Gastritis
✔ Excess acidity ✔ H. pylori infection ✔ Spicy & oily foods ✔ Irregular eating patterns ✔ Stress ✔ Painkiller overuse ✔ Smoking or alcohol ✔ Autoimmune disorders The most common cause is Helicobacter pylori infection, easily diagnosed using endoscopy.
Symptoms of Gastritis
Burning sensation in stomach ✔ Pain after eating ✔ Nausea & vomiting ✔ Bloating ✔ Indigestion ✔ Loss of appetite ✔ Black stools (serious sign) ✔ Weight loss Ignoring gastritis leads to complications.
Types of Gastritis
⭐ 1. H. pylori Gastritis
Caused by infection — requires antibiotic therapy.
⭐ 2. Erosive Gastritis
Stomach lining begins to wear out.
⭐ 3. Autoimmune Gastritis
Immune system attacks stomach lining.
⭐ 4. Stress-Induced Gastritis
Due to severe illness, trauma, or surgery.
⭐ 5. Reflux Gastritis
Caused by bile or acid reflux.
Complications of Untreated Gastritis
⚠ Peptic ulcer
Painful sore inside stomach.
⚠ Stomach bleeding
Black stools indicate serious bleeding.
⚠ Severe anemia
Bleeding leads to low blood count.
⚠ Barrett’s esophagus / Premalignant changes**
Long-standing gastritis is a risk factor.
⚠ Stomach cancer
Chronic H. pylori infection increases risk.
Early diagnosis prevents major complications.
How Gastritis Is Diagnosed
The best and most accurate method is:
⭐ Upper GI Endoscopy
Allows direct visualization of stomach lining and also enables biopsy.