Call
+918447748545

Published on: May 04, 2022
2 minute read
By: Second Medic Expert

Gastritis Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Gastritis is a condition that describes the inflammation of the stomach lining. Gastritis can be caused by a variety of things, including infection, injury, or autoimmune disease. Symptoms of gastritis include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, and bloating. Treatment for gastritis depends on the underlying cause; however, antacids and other stomach-lining protectants are often used to help relieve symptoms. If you think you may have gastritis, it's important to see your doctor so that an accurate diagnosis can be made and appropriate treatment can be started.

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can have many different causes, but most often it is caused by infection with bacteria or viruses. Gastritis can also be caused by injury to the stomach lining, such as from overuse of pain relievers or alcohol. Symptoms of gastritis may include stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. Treatment for gastritis usually involves taking medications to reduce stomach acid and heal the inflamed stomach lining. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to remove part of the stomach lining that has been damaged by gastritis.

Common causes include stress, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Symptoms of gastritis include pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, bloating, heartburn, and nausea. Gastritis can usually be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. However, in some cases, it may require medical treatment. If you think you may have gastritis, it's important to see your doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat the condition.

Gastritis is a condition that any of us could develop. It happens when our stomach lining becomes inflamed. Due to this can range from discomfort and pain to bleeding. While it isn’t a life-threatening condition, if left untreated, gastritis can lead tore ulcers, an increased risk of developing stomach cancer, and other serious problems. The most common cause of gastritis is bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (Hp). This bacterium is present in the digestive tract of many people and usually doesn’t cause any harm. However, in some cases it can lead to gastritis.

The most common symptom of gastritis is a burning feeling in the upper abdomen. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, belching, and indigestion. The most common cause of gastritis is infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). However, other factors such as stress, alcohol use, certain medications, and autoimmune conditions can also contribute to gastritis. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the H. pylori infection and antacids or other medications to relieve symptoms. Symptoms of gastritis may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion. Treatment depends on the cause of gastritis and may include antibiotics, antacids, and dietary changes.

Treatment for gastritis may involve antibiotics if the cause is bacterial, or antacid medications to reduce stomach acidity. More severe cases may require hospitalization. Surgery is rarely needed but may be necessary if there is significant bleeding from the stomach. There are many different causes of gastritis, and the symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, the most common symptoms include pain or discomfort in the abdomen, nausea and vomiting, heartburn, and indigestion. Gastritis can also lead to ulcers in the stomach lining.

There are a number of different factors that can contribute to gastritis. These include infections (such as Helicobacter pylori), autoimmune conditions (such as Crohn's disease), stress, drinking too much alcohol, and taking certain medications (such as NSAIDs). Diagnosing gastritis requires a combination of medical history, physical examination, and testing (including blood tests and endoscopy). The inflammation can be caused by various factors, including damage to the stomach lining from excess acid production, infection, or autoimmune response. Common symptoms of gastritis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause of the inflammation but may include antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or deploy a barrier between the stomach lining and acid-producing cells.

Read Blog

Difference Between Sadness and Depression: Understanding Normal Emotions vs Mental Illness

Feeling low or unhappy is a part of being human. However, not all low moods are the same. Many people confuse sadness with depression, which can delay proper support and treatment. Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is crucial for mental health awareness, early intervention and reducing stigma.

In India, mental health conditions are often misunderstood, with emotional distress frequently dismissed as temporary sadness.

What Is Sadness?

Sadness is a normal human emotion.

It usually occurs due to:

loss or disappointment
relationship issues
failure or stress
temporary life challenges

Sadness serves a psychological purpose, allowing individuals to process emotions and adapt.

Key Characteristics of Sadness

Sadness is:

situational
temporary
emotionally painful but manageable
responsive to support and positive events

A person experiencing sadness can still function, enjoy moments and feel hopeful.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a medical condition classified as a mood disorder.

It affects:

emotions
thinking patterns
behaviour
physical health

According to WHO, depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

Core Symptoms of Depression

Depression involves a combination of symptoms such as:

persistent low mood
loss of interest or pleasure
fatigue
sleep disturbances
appetite changes
feelings of worthlessness
difficulty concentrating

These symptoms last at least two weeks or longer.

Duration: A Key Difference

One major difference lies in duration.

Sadness:

lasts hours or days
improves with time

Depression:

lasts weeks or months
persists despite positive events

Duration helps distinguish emotional response from illness.

Impact on Daily Functioning

Sadness:

allows continuation of work and relationships
may reduce motivation temporarily

Depression:

interferes with work, studies and relationships
reduces self-care and productivity

Functional impairment is a defining feature of depression.

Emotional Experience: Sadness vs Depression

Sadness:

allows emotional range
moments of joy still occur

Depression:

creates emotional numbness
joy and interest disappear

People with depression often describe feeling empty rather than sad.

Physical Symptoms in Depression

Depression is not only emotional.

Physical symptoms include:

chronic fatigue
body aches
headaches
digestive issues

ICMR mental health studies highlight the physical burden of depression.

Thought Patterns and Self-Perception

Sadness:

thoughts remain realistic
self-worth is preserved

Depression:

negative self-talk dominates
feelings of guilt and worthlessness increase

These cognitive changes deepen emotional suffering.

Risk Factors for Depression

Factors increasing depression risk include:

chronic stress
trauma
family history
medical illnesses
hormonal changes

NFHS-5 data indicates rising mental health concerns among young adults.

Can Sadness Turn Into Depression?

Yes, prolonged or unresolved sadness can progress into depression.

This is more likely when:

stressors are ongoing
support systems are weak
coping mechanisms are limited

Early emotional support can prevent progression.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek help if:

low mood lasts more than two weeks
daily functioning is affected
sleep and appetite are disturbed
thoughts of self-harm occur

Early care leads to better outcomes.

Treatment Differences

Sadness:

improves with rest, support and time

Depression:

requires psychotherapy
may need medication
benefits from structured care

WHO emphasises early treatment to reduce disability.

Role of Social Support

Support systems help both conditions but are essential for recovery.

Depression recovery improves with:

understanding family
supportive workplaces
accessible mental healthcare

Stigma reduction is key.

Mental Health Awareness in India

Mental health remains underdiagnosed in India.

NITI Aayog reports:

limited access to mental health services
low awareness
high stigma

Education helps bridge this gap.

Importance of Early Recognition

Recognising depression early:

prevents worsening
reduces suicide risk
improves quality of life

Delay increases suffering and complications.

Supporting Someone With Depression

Helpful actions include:

listening without judgement
encouraging professional help
avoiding minimising feelings

Compassion is more effective than advice.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is essential for emotional wellbeing and mental health care. Sadness is a natural, temporary response to life events, while depression is a serious medical condition that affects thoughts, emotions and daily functioning. Recognising the signs early and seeking appropriate help can prevent long-term suffering and promote recovery. Mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical health.

References

World Health Organization (WHO) – Depression and Mental Health Disorders
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Mental Health Research and Burden
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Mental Health Indicators
Lancet – Depression, Disability and Public Health
NITI Aayog – National Mental Health Policy and Awareness Reports
Statista – Global and Indian Mental Health Trends

Request A Callback

+91

By using this website/app, I confirm that I am at least 18 years old and consent to the processing of my personal data in accordance with the Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Declaration.