Gastritis and indigestion: common symptoms and warning signs
Gastritis and indigestion can cause upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, nausea, or burning. Many causes are benign, but vomiting blood, black stools, weight loss, or severe ongoing pain need urgent attention.
When to get urgent help
- Vomiting blood, black stools, or symptoms of significant bleeding
- Severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, especially with vomiting or collapse
- Trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing vomiting
What to expect
- Common contributors include acid irritation, infection, anti-inflammatory medicines, alcohol, and stress-related flare-ups.
- Doctors may ask about medicines, alcohol, reflux symptoms, and bleeding signs.
- Some people need testing for H. pylori or endoscopy depending on age and alarm features.
Simple self-care and follow-up points
- Avoid obvious triggers such as NSAIDs, heavy alcohol use, or very irritating foods if they worsen symptoms.
- Seek review if symptoms are frequent, progressive, or associated with red flags.
- Do not assume all upper abdominal pain is “just indigestion.”