Gastritis and bloating: what to know

Bloating is a feeling of pressure or fullness and may occur with belching, indigestion, heartburn or upper-abdominal discomfort. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, but gas and abdominal swelling can also come from constipation, food intolerance, reflux or another bowel condition. The sensation alone cannot identify gastritis. Helicobacter Pylori Infection and alcohol-related irritation are possible contributors that a clinician may assess.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly, limit fizzy drinks, and notice whether particular foods consistently trigger symptoms. Gentle movement after eating may help comfort. Keep hydrated and avoid alcohol or painkillers that have previously irritated your stomach unless a clinician has advised otherwise. A review is sensible when bloating keeps returning, affects eating, or occurs with persistent indigestion, pain or loss of appetite.

Seek urgent care for severe or sudden abdominal pain, a rigid or markedly swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood, black stools, fainting or inability to pass stool or gas. Arrange prompt assessment for persistent bloating with unplanned weight loss, progressive vomiting, difficulty swallowing, recurrent abdominal pain or loss of appetite. These signs require a broader evaluation than self-care.

Could my bloating be from the stomach, bowel or a medicine? Should I be tested for Helicobacter Pylori Infection? Which foods or medicines should I avoid? What changes would mean I need urgent help?