Can Drinking Cause Stomach Pain? Alcoholic Gastritis Symptoms

You admit it. You had too much to drink last night. Later, you experience stomach pain and nausea. Is this the result of a hangover, or could it be something more serious? 

Stomach pain, nausea and vomiting are a few alcoholic gastritis symptoms. While this condition is treatable, putting off medical care can lead to extensive complications. 

At RMG Gastroenterology, our leading experts have helped thousands of Triangle residents with extensive stomach and digestive issues. Our Centers of Excellence solidify our position as leaders in our field. If you are experiencing any alcoholic gastritis symptoms, please schedule an appointment.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the signs of this disease, examine treatment options and explain the most common causes of the illness.

What Are Common Alcoholic Gastritis Symptoms?

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, we urge you to schedule an appointment with us:

• Upper abdominal or stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Anemia
• Loss of appetite
• Ulcers
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Gas and bloating
• Irritated stomach
• Stomach pain after drinking alcohol

It’s vital to schedule an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists in Raleigh when you’re experiencing these alcoholic gastritis symptoms. Failure to seek treatment in a timely manner could cause permanent damage to your digestive system, so please contact us for an appointment as soon as possible. 

What Causes Alcoholic Gastritis?

As its name suggests, excessive alcohol consumption is the primary cause of alcoholic gastritis. The alcohol inflames your stomach lining, causing severe stomach cramping and sometimes even vomiting. 

While too much alcohol is typically the cause of this disease, it can also be made worse by:

• Taking NSAIDs
• Bacterial infections
• Bile reflux
• Autoimmune disorders
• Excessive stress
• Smoking
• Excessive caffeine consumption

How Is Alcoholic Gastritis Treated?

First, regardless of whether or not alcohol was the primary reason behind your gastritis, you should abstain from alcohol. In many cases, drinking only makes the condition worse. If you have any questions about alcohol consumption, please feel free to ask us. We pledge to take the time to answer them completely. 

If your case is severe, you may need certain medications such as:

• Antibiotics
• Proton pump inhibitors (to reduce stomach acid)
• Antacids
• Probiotics

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Alcoholic Gastritis?

We mentioned earlier that untreated alcoholic gastritis will eventually get worse, permanently damaging your digestive system. In certain cases, this can lead to serious, life-threatening conditions.

Long-term effects include:

• Bleeding of the gastrointestinal tract

This is a medical emergency. Symptoms of GI bleeding include:

• Vomiting blood
• Tarry or black stool
• Rectal bleeding (often within stool)
• Lightheadedness
• Abdominal pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting
• Chest pain

GI bleeding is an emergency. Call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room.

• Peritonitis

Inflammation of the tissue that lines your abdominal cavity. If the infection is not resolved, it can cause serious, life-threatening complications. 

• Sepsis

• Organ failure

• Obstruction or perforation of the stomach

Alcoholic Gastritis Symptoms Shouldn’t Be Ignored — Get Expert, Compassionate Care from Raleigh’s Leading Gastroenterologists

We understand all too well how “minor” symptoms can be indicators of a larger issue. That’s why we place your digestive health as our top priority. With several convenient locations in the Triangle and across the broader community, RMG Gastroenterology is ready to serve the community with the state-of-the-art care they deserve. 

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms we listed above, please schedule an appointment with us.