What happens if gastritis is not treated?

Gastritis is inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining. It may cause upper abdominal pain, indigestion, nausea, early fullness or Loss of Appetite. Continued irritation can weaken the lining and allow an ulcer to form; bleeding may appear as vomit that looks like coffee grounds or stool that is black and sticky. Common contributors include Helicobacter Pylori Infection, regular use of some anti-inflammatory pain medicines and heavy alcohol use. The cause guides treatment.

Book a clinical review if symptoms continue or keep returning. Your clinician may consider a H. Pylori Breath Test and review pain medicines, alcohol and other irritants. Acid Reflux Medication may be used in selected situations, but it should not replace assessment when symptoms persist. Avoid taking anti-inflammatory painkillers on an empty stomach unless a clinician has advised them, and ask before stopping prescribed medicines.

Get urgent help for vomiting blood, black stools, severe or worsening Abdominal Pain, fainting, unusual weakness, repeated vomiting or inability to keep fluids down. Unexplained weight loss or ongoing Loss of Appetite also warrants timely medical review.

Ask what may be irritating your stomach, whether Helicobacter Pylori Infection should be checked, how long treatment should continue and which warning signs require emergency care.