Gastritis

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It is a common condition that can develop suddenly and resolve within a day or two, or it can persist over months or years. In either case, it is worth understanding what causes it, how it is diagnosed, and what can be done to manage it effectively.

Many people with gastritis have no symptoms at all, and the condition is sometimes discovered incidentally during an endoscopy performed for another reason. When symptoms do occur, they can range from mild discomfort to more noticeable digestive upset, and in some cases they may signal a need for further investigation.

Symptoms of Gastritis

The symptoms of gastritis vary considerably from person to person. A burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen is one of the more common experiences, and this may improve or worsen with food. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating, and burping can also occur.

In some cases, there may be blood in the vomit or a dark, tarry appearance to stools (called melaena). These are signs that the stomach lining may have ulcerated or is bleeding, and they require prompt medical attention. Similarly, unexplained weight loss or difficulty swallowing should not be ignored and warrants assessment by a doctor as soon as possible.

Because gastritis can be asymptomatic, it is not unusual for a person to be unaware they have the condition until it is identified during investigation of another concern.

What causes Gastritis?

There are several recognised causes of gastritis, and identifying the underlying cause is an important part of determining the appropriate management.

Helicobacter pylori infection

The most common cause of gastritis is infection with a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This organism lives within the stomach lining, and the substances it produces trigger irritation and inflammation over time. H. pylori is also responsible for most peptic ulcers and has been identified as a contributing factor in the development of stomach cancer in some individuals.

H. pylori infection is quite prevalent in Australia, particularly in older adults. Approximately three in ten Australians over the age of 60 are estimated to carry the bacterium, though most will not become unwell from it. The infection is thought to be less common in younger generations. To learn more about H. pylori, click here.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is another well-established cause of gastritis. These medications, which include aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen, can irritate the stomach lining with ongoing use. If you are taking an NSAID for a chronic condition and begin experiencing stomach symptoms, it is worth discussing this with your doctor before making any changes to your medication.

Alcohol

Consuming alcohol in excess can cause irritation and damage to the stomach lining, leading to gastritis. Reducing or abstaining from alcohol is a straightforward step that can significantly reduce inflammation in these cases.

Other causes

Less common causes include bile reflux from the small intestine into the stomach, prolonged or forceful vomiting, certain allergic and immune conditions, and exposure to radiation. A condition known as autoimmune gastritis occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly targets the stomach lining. This form typically produces no symptoms, but it can lead to deficiencies in iron and vitamin B12 over time.

When should you see a doctor?

You should arrange to see your GP if your symptoms are severe, are not improving, or are getting progressively worse. It is important to see a doctor promptly if you notice blood in your vomit or stool, observe dark or tarry stools, experience unexplained weight loss, feel full unusually quickly during a meal, or find it painful or difficult to swallow.

If you vomit material that contains blood or resembles dark, dried blood, or if your stool appears black, please go to your nearest emergency department or call triple zero (000) without delay.

Left untreated, gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers and bleeding. Certain forms of the condition are also associated with a higher risk of stomach cancer, which makes appropriate investigation and follow-up an important part of care.

How is Gastritis diagnosed?

Diagnosing gastritis begins with a conversation about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you are taking. Your doctor may arrange blood tests, a stool test, or a breath test to check for H. pylori infection. The urea breath test is a non-invasive way to detect whether the bacteria are present in your digestive system.

If further investigation is needed, your GP may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a specialist in digestive health. The gastroenterologist may recommend an endoscopy, a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a small camera is gently passed through the mouth and into the stomach. This allows the specialist to examine the stomach lining directly.

Endoscopy is typically performed under sedation, so you will be comfortable and relaxed throughout. If the stomach lining shows signs of redness or other changes, a small tissue sample known as a biopsy may be taken at the same time. The biopsy is then examined in a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of any inflammation or tissue change.

How is Gastritis treated?

Treatment for gastritis is guided by the underlying cause. The goals are to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, address the root cause, and minimise the risk of complications.

Treating Helicobacter Pylori infection

If Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) is identified as the cause, your doctor will prescribe a combination of antibiotics and acid-lowering medication. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as directed, which typically runs for one to two weeks. After completing the course, a follow-up breath test is usually performed to confirm the infection has been successfully cleared.

Reducing exposure to known irritants 

If NSAIDs or alcohol are contributing to the inflammation, reducing or stopping their use is an important part of management. If you have been prescribed NSAIDs for another medical condition, do not simply stop taking them without first speaking to your doctor, as they may need to recommend an alternative or additional medication.

Medication to protect the stomach lining

Medications that reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach can relieve discomfort and allow the stomach lining to recover. These include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole, H2 blockers such as famotidine, and antacids. Some of these are available without a prescription, though you should speak with your pharmacist or doctor about appropriate use, particularly if your symptoms keep returning.

Lifestyle adjustments

Making some changes to eating habits can help ease symptoms while the stomach heals. Eating smaller meals more frequently, limiting spicy, fried, or highly acidic foods, and reducing caffeine and alcohol intake can all be beneficial. If you smoke, stopping is also advisable, as smoking can further irritate the stomach lining.

When no treatment is needed

In some situations, no specific treatment is required. If gastritis is discovered incidentally during an endoscopy, H. pylori is not present, and the biopsy shows no features of concern, it is generally appropriate to monitor rather than treat. Your specialist will advise you on the best course of action based on your individual circumstances.

Can Gastritis be prevented?

While not all forms of gastritis can be prevented, there are practical steps that can reduce your risk. Limiting alcohol consumption and using NSAIDs only when necessary and at the lowest effective dose are among the most important measures. Good hand hygiene, eating food that has been properly washed and cooked, and drinking water from a clean, safe source can also help reduce the risk of H. pylori infection.

The role of a Gastroenterologist

If your GP suspects gastritis or wants to investigate your symptoms further, they may refer you to a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterology specialist is well placed to assess the severity of any inflammation, identify its cause, perform endoscopy where indicated, and develop an appropriate management plan tailored to your needs.

Queensland Gastroenterology provides specialist assessment and care for patients across Brisbane and South East Queensland. If you have received a referral to see one of our doctors, you can request an appointment, or contact our rooms directly on (07) 3321 1500.

This information has been sourced and adapted from education resources developed by Health Direct (Australia) and Better Health Channel Victoria.

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Last reviewed 6/3/2026