Gastritis Symptoms and Presentations
Common and Severe Symptoms
- The American Gastroenterological Association notes that epigastric pain or discomfort that may worsen after eating is a common symptom of gastritis 1
- Nausea and vomiting, which can be persistent or cyclical, are symptoms of gastritis 1
- Feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating small amounts of food is a symptom of gastritis 2
- Bloating and abdominal distension are symptoms of gastritis 1
- Heartburn or acid reflux symptoms can be associated with gastritis 1
- Severe weakness and fatigue, which may be related to anemia from chronic blood loss or vitamin deficiencies, can occur in gastritis 2
- Iron-deficiency anemia symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, can occur due to chronic bleeding or malabsorption in gastritis 2
- Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms, such as neurological symptoms and fatigue, can occur particularly in autoimmune gastritis 2, 3
- Dyspepsia that doesn't respond to standard treatments can be a symptom of gastritis 1
Symptoms by Type of Gastritis
- Chronic gastritis may be asymptomatic in early stages, but can lead to gradual development of micronutrient deficiencies, such as iron and B12 deficiency 2, 3
- Autoimmune gastritis can be asymptomatic until advanced stages, and may present with symptoms of pernicious anemia, such as fatigue and neurological symptoms 2, 3
- H. pylori-associated gastritis may be asymptomatic or present with mild dyspeptic symptoms, and increases the risk of peptic ulcer disease 2, 3
Atypical Presentations and Complications
- Atypical chest pain that can be confused with cardiac symptoms can occur in gastritis 1
- Nonspecific symptoms like early satiety and postprandial fullness can occur in gastritis 2
- Early diagnosis and treatment of gastritis are crucial to prevent complications, such as gastric ulcers, bleeding, and increased risk of gastric cancer 2