What are the symptoms of acute gastritis?
Acute simple gastritis refers to acute inflammation of the gastric mucosa—either widespread or localized—caused by various external and internal factors. Clinically, acute simple gastritis is categorized into acute erosive gastritis, acute suppurative gastritis, and acute corrosive gastritis, with the first two being more common. So, what symptoms does acute gastritis present? Let’s take a closer look below.
Symptoms of Acute Gastritis
Clinical manifestations of acute simple gastritis vary depending on the underlying cause, which may include acute stress, medications, ischemia, bile reflux, and infection.
Acute simple gastritis caused by infection or ingestion of food contaminated with bacterial toxins is the most common type. Onset is typically abrupt, occurring within several hours to 24 hours after consuming contaminated food. Symptoms range in severity and commonly include epigastric discomfort or pain—sometimes severe colicky abdominal pain—loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (often accompanying enteritis), with stools typically watery. In severe cases, patients may develop fever, hematemesis and/or melena, dehydration, shock, and metabolic acidosis.
Opt for stomach-soothing foods. Vegetables and fruits are essential components of a balanced diet and should be consumed in adequate amounts; however, choose finely textured, soft, and easily digestible options.
Dietary management for acute gastritis begins with clear liquid diets, which best minimize gastric irritation and help alleviate symptoms, allowing gradual progression to more substantial meals.
During acute exacerbation, consume only clear liquids—for example, rice water, almond tea, clear broth, or strained jujube (red date) soup—and favor savory (rather than sweet) preparations. As symptoms improve, transition gradually to low-residue semi-liquid foods, while minimizing intake of gas-producing or high-fat items such as milk, soy milk, and sucrose.
We hope the above information is helpful to you.
