Gastritis is a common, yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It refers to the inflammation of the stomach lining. Understanding the types of gastritis is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. In this guide, we will explore the different types of gastritis, their symptoms, causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.
I have personally been living with gastritis for a long time, and I can tell you here that it’s not always easy to categorize the type of the disease that you have. Up to now, I am not too sure which type I have. Having said that, I hope this guide will help someone else find relief.
What Is Gastritis?
Gastritis is the inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the stomach lining. It can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or develop gradually over time (chronic gastritis). My own symptoms came gradually, meaning I have chronic gastritis. Left untreated, the disease can lead to ulcers, bleeding, or even stomach cancer in severe cases.
Types of gastritis
The most common types of gastritis are acute gastritis, chronic gastritis, erosive gastritis, autoimmune gastritis, infectious gastritis, reactive (chemical) gastritis and atrophic gastritis. We will take a closer look at each of these types below;
1. Acute Gastritis
Acute gastritis is characterized by sudden inflammation of the stomach lining. It is usually short-term and may resolve on its own with minimal intervention.
Causes:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
- Stress (especially from surgery or trauma)
- Bacterial or viral infections
Symptoms:
- Sharp stomach pain
- Vomiting (sometimes with blood)
- Feeling full quickly
Treatment:
- Discontinuation of irritants like NSAIDs or alcohol
- Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- Antibiotics if caused by bacterial infection
2. Chronic Gastritis
Chronic gastritis develops gradually and can last for months or even years. It often results in damage to the stomach lining over time.
This is probably the type of gastritis that I have, because I have lived with the disease for over 5 years now. I seem to be gradually getting better, but there are flareups every now and again.
Causes:
- Long-term H. pylori infection
- Autoimmune disorders
- Chronic alcohol use
- Persistent use of NSAIDs
Symptoms:
- Dull stomach pain
- Feeling of fullness after eating a small amount
- Nausea
- Unexplained weight loss
Treatment:
- Antibiotic therapy for H. pylori
- PPIs and H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid
- Vitamin B12 supplements if deficiency is present
3. Erosive Gastritis
Erosive gastritis involves inflammation and wearing away of the stomach lining, which can lead to ulcers and bleeding.
Causes:
- Stress from serious illness or injury (stress gastritis)
- NSAIDs
- Alcohol abuse
- Infections
Symptoms:
- Stomach pain
- Black or bloody stools
- Vomiting blood (hematemesis)
Treatment:
- Acid-suppressing medications
- Treating underlying stress or illness
- Stopping irritants like NSAIDs
4. Autoimmune Gastritis
This rare type occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach lining, specifically the cells that produce stomach acid and intrinsic factor, which is needed for B12 absorption.
This is another candidate, as far as my personal diagnosis is concerned. Previous tests have indicated that I have iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies. I have been taking iron and vitamin supplements to counter these deficiencies.
Causes:
- Autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or type 1 diabetes
- Genetic predisposition
Symptoms:
- Fatigue due to B12 deficiency
- Tingling in hands and feet
- Digestive discomfort
- Anemia
Treatment:
- Lifelong B12 injections or supplements
- Monitoring for stomach cancer risk
- Acid-reducing medication
5. Infectious Gastritis
Caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, infectious gastritis is more common in immunocompromised individuals.
Common Pathogens:
- Helicobacter pylori (most common)
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- Candida (fungal)
- Parasites like Giardia
Symptoms:
- Variable and can mimic other types
- Diarrhea if parasite-related
- Fever in viral cases
Treatment:
- Targeted antimicrobial or antifungal therapy
- Supportive care such as hydration and rest
6. Reactive (Chemical) Gastritis
Also known as chemical gastritis, this type is caused by a reaction to substances such as bile or irritants like NSAIDs.
Causes:
- Bile reflux
- NSAIDs
- Alcohol
- Post-gastrectomy changes
Symptoms:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Bloating
Treatment:
- Avoiding the causative agent
- Acid blockers
- Surgery in severe bile reflux cases
7. Atrophic Gastritis
A form of chronic gastritis where the stomach lining becomes thin and loses its function over time.
Causes:
- H. pylori infection
- Autoimmune responses
- Aging
Risks:
- Higher risk of gastric cancer
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Pernicious anemia
Treatment:
- Monitor for complications
- Vitamin supplementation
- Eradication of H. pylori if present
Diagnosing the Type of Gastritis
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Diagnostic tools include:
- Endoscopy for direct visualization and biopsy of the stomach lining
- H. pylori tests including breath, stool, or blood tests
- Blood tests to check for anemia or vitamin B12 deficiency
- Stool test to check for bleeding or infection
However, as I have already explained above, it’s not always easy to diagnose the exact type of gastritis. I am testimony to that fact. The good news is that there are steps that can be taken to assist in healing, whatever the type of the disease that you may have.
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Persistent stomach pain
- Blood in vomit or stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe fatigue
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications like ulcers, bleeding, and even stomach cancer.
Preventing Gastritis
While not all types of gastritis can be prevented, the following tips can reduce your risk:
- Limit NSAID and alcohol use
- Manage stress effectively
- Avoid smoking
- Eat a balanced, non-irritating diet
- Practice food hygiene to avoid infections
- Screen and treat H. pylori infections early
Essentially, you need to avoid gastritis pain triggers.
Consult your doctor
Understanding the types of gastritis can empower individuals to recognize symptoms early, seek appropriate medical care, and make lifestyle changes to support digestive health.
Whether it’s acute, chronic, erosive, autoimmune, or infectious, gastritis is a manageable condition with the right diagnosis and treatment.
For lasting relief and prevention, work closely with your healthcare provider and adopt a proactive approach to your stomach health.