Gastritis in Teens: When to See a Doctor

One of the common causes of gastritis is a bacterial infection caused by Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium resides in the stomach and can cause considerable damage. At Digestive Disease Care, we utilize advanced diagnostic tools to identify such infections and provide appropriate treatment. Substance abuse, including excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use, can also lead to gastritis. Our comprehensive approach includes the provision of advice on lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of such complications. We also recognize the role of high stress levels in triggering gastritis in teenagers. Our team is committed to providing holistic care, including strategies for managing stress.

Gastritis, a condition involving inflammation, erosion, or irritation of the stomach lining, can affect teenagers and impact their quality of life. It’s important to recognize the causes of this condition to ensure effective management and prevention. Autoimmune disorders, such as pernicious anemia or autoimmune gastritis, can also result in gastritis. Our specialists are adept at diagnosing and managing these complex conditions. Other potential causes of gastritis in teenagers include Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, certain medications like steroids, radiation therapy, and trauma or injury to the abdomen.

Gastritis, which involves inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining, can present with a range of symptoms from mild to severe. Some of these symptoms may resemble other common health issues, making it essential to seek professional evaluation and treatment. Common symptoms of gastritis in teenagers include abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper abdomen. This pain can vary, presenting as a dull, burning, or gnawing sensation that may change in intensity around mealtime.

In our practice, we frequently see symptoms like nausea, recurrent upset stomach, and loss of appetite, which can lead teens to eat less or skip meals altogether. Additional symptoms we observe include bloating, gas, and a sense of fullness in the abdomen, resulting in complaints of being overly stuffed or gassy. Early satiety, where patients feel full after consuming only a small amount of food, is also a common sign. Indigestion, heartburn, and acid reflux are other frequent complaints, causing a burning or acidic sensation in the stomach after eating and sometimes leading to belching.

In severe cases, gastritis can cause more alarming symptoms, such as vomiting blood, blood in the stool, or black, tarry stools, all of which require immediate medical attention. At Digestive Disease Care, we encourage anyone, especially teenagers, experiencing these symptoms to seek prompt medical advice. While these symptoms are common in gastritis, they could also point to other health issues. Our team of experienced gastroenterologists is skilled in diagnosing and treating gastritis, helping patients return to a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

This condition in teens can be influenced by changes in dietary habits, high stress, infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, certain medications, alcohol use, smoking, and excessive stress. Symptoms can range widely, with some teens showing no symptoms and others experiencing discomfort such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, bloating, heartburn, loss of appetite, or feeling overly full after eating.

Our skilled gastroenterologists are trained to identify gastritis and recommend effective treatments. We also advise young patients on lifestyle changes that can help manage or prevent gastritis, like dietary adjustments, stress management, and maintaining a healthy weight.

If your teen experiences persistent gastritis symptoms like severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, sudden weight loss, fever, or difficulty breathing, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. While gastritis in teens is generally mild and manageable, complications can arise if left untreated. At our practice, we are committed to providing excellent care for teenagers and ensuring their digestive health.

Knowing when to visit a specialist for gastritis isn’t always clear, as symptoms can be mild and easy to confuse with other digestive issues. However, certain signs indicate that you should seek medical attention from a gastroenterologist. Persistent, severe, or recurrent abdominal pain, especially if it doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications, is a key warning sign. While gastritis can cause discomfort or a gnawing ache in the upper abdomen, intense pain may suggest a more serious condition, like a peptic ulcer or stomach cancer—conditions our team is skilled in treating.

Additionally, changes in bowel movements, such as black or tarry stools, should be addressed immediately, as they may signal bleeding in the stomach, a potentially life-threatening condition. Persistent nausea and vomiting, especially if vomiting blood or material resembling coffee grounds, is another red flag. These symptoms can indicate serious conditions such as peptic ulcers or stomach cancer.

In summary, at Digestive Disease Care, we understand that gastritis in teenagers can be caused by various factors. We are committed to providing comprehensive care for your teenager’s digestive health. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Forest Hills NY, Jamaica NY, Jericho NY, Lake Success NY, Melville NY, Mineola NY, Massapequa NY and New Hyde Park NY.