What are the symptoms of Gastritis ?

Gastritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining. It can lead to a variety of symptoms, which can range from mild discomfort to more severe issues. Some common symptoms of gastritis include:

**Abdominal Pain:** This is one of the most common symptoms of gastritis. The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp or burning sensation in the upper abdomen. The pain may worsen after eating or on an empty stomach.

2. **Nausea and Vomiting:** Gastritis can lead to feelings of nausea and sometimes vomiting. The severity can vary from person to person.

3. **Loss of Appetite:** Many individuals with gastritis experience a decrease in appetite due to the discomfort or pain associated with eating.

4. **Bloating:** Gastritis can lead to a feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen.

5. **Indigestion:** Individuals with gastritis might experience indigestion, which can manifest as a feeling of discomfort, burning, or heaviness in the upper abdomen after eating.

6. **Belching and Hiccups:** Excessive belching or hiccups can sometimes be associated with gastritis.

7. **Black Stools:** In some cases, bleeding from the inflamed stomach lining can result in the passing of black, tarry stools, which indicates the presence of blood.

8. **Fatigue:** Chronic inflammation and discomfort can lead to fatigue or a general sense of low energy.

9. **Heartburn:** While heartburn is more commonly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it can also occur as a symptom of gastritis, particularly if the stomach acid irritates the stomach lining.

It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals with gastritis. Some people might experience only mild discomfort, while others might have more pronounced symptoms. In some cases, gastritis can also be asymptomatic, meaning a person may have inflammation of the stomach lining without experiencing noticeable symptoms.