Can chronic gastritis cause diarrhea?

Dec 19, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have suffered from chronic gastritis for a long time, and recently I’ve been experiencing persistent abdominal pain. Can chronic gastritis cause diarrhea?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Chao
Whether chronic gastritis causes diarrhea depends on the severity of the condition and individual differences. In the early stages or with mild disease, patients may exhibit only typical symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, bloating, belching, and decreased appetite; diarrhea is uncommon at this stage. However, as the disease progresses, inflammation may extend to the intestines, leading to gastrointestinal dysfunction. When gastrointestinal motility becomes hyperactive, patients may develop diarrhea, often accompanied by changes in stool consistency. Therefore, in addition to monitoring upper abdominal discomfort, patients with chronic gastritis should also pay attention to intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea. If any bodily discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended so that physicians can formulate an appropriate treatment plan based on the individual’s specific condition. Additionally, patients should maintain healthy dietary habits and lifestyle practices to support disease recovery.