Complications and Risks of Gastritis

Most gastritis settles without problems. Untreated or long-standing gastritis can cause complications, so persistent symptoms deserve medical review.

Possible complications

• Peptic ulcers: open sores in the stomach or the first part of the intestine, especially with H. pylori or NSAIDs
• Bleeding: from erosions or ulcers, causing black stools or vomiting blood
• Anaemia: from slow bleeding or poor iron absorption
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: common in autoimmune and atrophic gastritis, causing tiredness and nerve symptoms
• Atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia: long-standing changes in the lining that need follow-up
• Stomach outlet narrowing: rare scarring that causes repeated vomiting
• Stomach cancer risk: slightly higher after many years of H. pylori infection or atrophic changes, which is why treatment and follow-up matter

Who is at higher risk

People with untreated H. pylori, regular NSAID users, heavy drinkers, smokers, older adults and those with a family history of stomach problems.

Reducing the risk

Test and treat H. pylori, avoid unnecessary painkillers, stop smoking and alcohol, and follow up as advised.

Seek urgent care

Black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, severe sudden pain, fainting or repeated vomiting. Call 112 or 102.

Key point

Early treatment makes serious complications uncommon.

Follow-up

If you have atrophic gastritis, your doctor may advise periodic endoscopy and blood tests for B12 and iron. Keep these appointments even when you feel well.