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What is Alcoholic Gastritis?

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Alcoholic gastritis refers to the inflammation of the stomach lining, which is primarily triggered by prolonged and heavy alcohol consumption but can also occur following a single episode of excessive drinking.

This guide to alcohol-induced gastritis outlines how this condition manifests and shows you how to connect with treatment for gastritis and alcohol addiction.

Alcoholic Gastritis Symptoms

Alcoholic gastritis can manifest with a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity. The symptoms of alcoholic gastritis often occur as a result of the inflammation and irritation of the stomach lining due to excessive alcohol consumption. Common symptoms of alcohol gastritis may include:

Abdominal pain

Individuals with gastritis from alcohol frequently experience abdominal discomfort or pain, which can range from mild to severe. The pain is often described as a burning or gnawing sensation in the upper abdomen.

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea is a common symptom of gastritis, and it may be accompanied by episodes of vomiting, which can provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying issue.

Indigestion

Alcohol and gastritis can lead to indigestion, causing feelings of fullness, bloating, and discomfort after eating, even with small meals.

Loss of appetite

Many individuals with gastritis, including the alcoholic variant, experience a reduced appetite and may eat less than usual.

Bloating, gas, and belching

Gastritis can lead to increased gas production and abdominal bloating. Frequent belching or burping may occur due to the buildup of gas in the stomach.

Heartburn

Some individuals with alcoholic gastritis may experience heartburn or acid reflux symptoms, including a burning sensation in the chest or throat.

Black or tarry stools

Severe alcohol gastritis symptoms may include gastrointestinal bleeding, resulting in the passage of black or tarry stools, which is a medical emergency.

Vomiting blood

In rare and severe instances, bleeding from the stomach lining can lead to the vomiting of blood, a condition known as hematemesis, which requires immediate medical attention.

Fatigue

Acute alcoholic gastritis can contribute to fatigue and a general sense of malaise.

Seek medical evaluation if you experience persistent or severe symptoms of alcoholic gastritis, especially if they are accompanied by signs of bleeding. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent complications and support the healing of the stomach lining. Consulting with a healthcare provider will inform a proper assessment and management plan.

An image of a woman experiencing abdominal pain and fatigue, an indication of alcoholic gastritis

How to Treat Alcoholic Gastritis

Treating gastritis alcoholism involves a combination of measures aimed at alleviating symptoms, promoting healing of the stomach lining, and addressing the underlying cause, which is excessive alcohol consumption. Here are steps often taken in the treatment of alcoholic gastritis:

  • Abstinence from alcohol: The most crucial step is complete abstinence from alcohol. Ceasing alcohol consumption is essential to prevent further damage to the stomach lining and promote healing.
  • Medication: In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to manage symptoms and support the healing process. These medications may include antacids to reduce stomach acid, PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) to decrease acid production, and medications to protect the stomach lining.
  • Dietary modifications: Dietary changes can play a significant role in managing alcoholic gastritis. Patients may be advised to avoid spicy, acidic, or irritating foods and beverages. A bland and easily digestible diet can be beneficial during the recovery period.
  • Hydration: Staying well-hydrated will prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate gastritis symptoms. Drinking plenty of water and clear fluids is recommended.
  • Nutritional support: In cases of severe gastritis that leads to malnutrition, nutritional support may be necessary. This can include dietary counseling or, in extreme cases, the use of a feeding tube to ensure adequate nutrition.
  • Lifestyle changes: People are often encouraged to make positive lifestyle changes to promote healing and prevent gastritis recurrence. This may include quitting smoking, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy body weight.
  • Regular follow-up: Continued monitoring by a healthcare provider will help assess the progress of healing and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
  • Integrated treatment: If alcohol dependence or addiction present simultaneously with gastritis, integrated care that addresses both alcohol use disorder and gastritis can be more effective than treating either condition in isolation.

Recovery from alcoholic gastritis can vary widely from person to person, and the treatment approach should be tailored to each person’s specific needs and circumstances. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to develop a personalized treatment plan and ensure a safe and effective recovery process.

FAQs

Does alcohol cause gastritis?

Yes, alcohol consumption can lead to gastritis, as it irritates the stomach lining and can cause inflammation.

How to heal alcohol gastritis?

Effective alcoholic gastritis treatment involves abstaining from alcohol, following a bland diet, and taking prescribed medications like proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid and allow the stomach lining to heal. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Does alcohol gastritis go away?

Alcohol gastritis can improve and potentially resolve when alcohol consumption is ceased or significantly reduced. The degree and speed of recovery can vary among individuals, and some cases may require medical intervention and dietary changes for full healing.

Can alcoholic gastritis kill you?

While alcohol gastritis itself is not typically fatal, it can lead to more severe complications if left untreated or if alcohol abuse continues. These complications may include bleeding, ulcers, or a heightened risk of other serious health issues, which, if not addressed promptly, could be life-threatening.

What is the alcohol gastritis healing time?

The healing time for alcohol gastritis varies depending on several factors, including the extent of stomach lining damage, the individual’s overall health, and their commitment to abstaining from alcohol. Mild cases may show improvement in a matter of weeks, while more severe cases could take several months or longer to heal fully. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a personalized assessment and guidance on the healing process.

Get Treatment for Alcohol Addiction at Ohio Recovery Centers

If you require alcohol gastritis treatment, shortcut your search by reaching out to Ohio Recovery Centers. We offer outpatient alcohol addiction treatment at our rehab program in Cincinnati, Ohio. 

All treatment programs offer individualized therapy that blends evidence-based treatments and holistic therapies that may include:

For immediate assistance detoxing from alcohol, call admissions today at (877) 679-2132.

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Joseph Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore has been working in the addiction industry for half a decade and has been writing about addiction and substance abuse treatment during that time. He has experience working for facilities all across the country. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.
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Christopher Glover CDCA

My name is Christopher Glover, and I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. I am currently in school and working to grow in competence to better support our community. As a recovering individual I know the struggles that you or a loved one can go through and that there is help for anything you may be struggling with.

The hardest part is asking for help and we are here as a team to best support you and your decision to start your journey towards a better future. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn

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Amanda Kuchenberg PRS CDCA

I recently joined Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers as a Clinical Case Manager. I am originally from Wisconsin but settled in the Cincinnati area in my early 20s.  My career started in the fashion industry but quickly changed as I searched to find my drive and passion through helping others who struggle with addiction. 

As someone who is also in recovery, I wanted to provide hope, share lived experience, and support others on their journey.  I currently have my Peer Recovery Support Supervision Certification along with my CDCA and plan to continue my education with University of Cincinnati so I can continue to aid in the battle against substance addiction. Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn.

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Patrick McCamley LCDC III

 Patrick McCamley (Clinical Therapist) is a Cincinnati native who has worked in substance use disorder/co-occurring mental health disorder treatment since 2019. Patrick received his bachelors degree in psychology from University of Cincinnati in 2021 and received his LCDC III (Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor) license from the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board in 2022. Patrick has worked in Clinical Operations, Clinical Case Management, and Clinical Therapy throughout his career.

Patrick has tremendous empathy and compassion for the recovery community, being in recovery himself since 2018. Patrick is uniquely qualified to be helpful because of the specific combination of his academic background and his own experience in recovery.

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Bill Zimmerman CDCA

Bill Zimmerman is a Greater Cincinnati Area native who has worked in substance use disorder/co-occurring mental health disorder treatment since 2018. Bill received his (Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant) license from the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board in 2020.

Bill has worked in Clinical Operations in both support and supervision, and Program facilitating and 12 step recovery support during his career. Bill has a passion for the recovery community, having been in recovery himself since 1982. Connect with Bill on LinkedIn

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Taylor Lilley CDCA, PRS

Growing up in Louisiana with addiction running rampant on both sides of my family. A life away from drugs and alcohol seemed impossible for someone like me. I remember what it was like sitting across from someone thinking there is no way they could ever understand what I was going through.

Sharing my experience offers a credibility and a certain type of trust with clients that only someone who has walked down this road can illustrate. To immerse myself further into the field of addiction, I am currently studying at Cincinnati State for Human and Social Services.  I hope I never forget where I came from, if I can do it, so can you!

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Thomas Hunter LSW

Hello my name is Thomas Hunter. I was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. I am a licensed social worker.In my scope of practice I have worked in the areas of mental health and recovery for thirty years. The clients I have worked with in my career have ranged in age from seven to seventy.

I strive each day to serve my purpose of helping those in need and I believe I do so by utilizing all of my experiences to accomplish my goal of supporting those who desire to establish their sobriety and maintain it in their recovery. Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn.

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Mary D.Porter,LICDC

 My name is Mary D. Porter. I received my Masters of Social Work in 2008 from The University of Cincinnati. I received My Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor Licensure in 2001. I retired from The Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center on April 14, 2014. Currently, I am the Associate Clinical Director for The Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers in Cincinnati.. Due to the fourth wave of the Opioid Epidemic in 2019,  I decided to enter back into the workforce to assist the addicted population.

The overdoses were astounding and I wanted to help.  I consider myself  to be an advocate for the addicted population. My compassion, resilience, empathy, wisdom, knowledge, experience and  love I have for this forgotten population goes beyond words. I consider what I do for the addicted population as a calling versus a “career,” because I too was once an “addict and alcoholic.” Today I am 45.5 years alcohol and substance free.

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Ben Lemmon LCDC III

Hello, my name is Ben Lemmon, and I’m the Vice President and Clinical Director at Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers. I’ve been working in the addiction and mental health field since 2013 and decided to enter the field after overcoming my own challenges with addiction.

When I first meet a client, I always explain to them that the reason we are meeting is because they are not capable of obtaining or maintaining sobriety, and my goal is to create a person that can maintain sobriety. I believe a person’s personality is made up of their thoughts, feelings and actions and my job is to help clients identify the thoughts, feelings and actions that have them disconnected from recovery and provide them with the tools to live a healthy and happy life. Connect with Ben on LinkedIn