Bile Reflux Gastritis Symptoms

Gastritis is a condition characterized by persistent inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammatory condition has a number of causes, including natural aging, the use of certain types of medications, bacterial infections or chronic bile reflux, according to Medline Plus, a health information website established by the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Bile reflux symptoms associated with gastritis can be uncomfortable and should be discussed with a doctor if they occur 1.

Abdominal Pain

Bile is a fluid produced by the liver that aids in the digestive process within the small intestine. Gastritis can occur when this acidic substance abnormally flows backwards from the small intestine into the stomach and esophagus--a condition known as bile reflux. High levels of acid within the stomach due to bile reflux can cause severe irritation and inflammation leading to sensations of pain within the abdomen, doctors at the Mayo Clinic explain 1. The intensity of abdominal pain can vary from mild to severe depending upon the frequency and duration of bile reflux episodes.

Heartburn

Gastritis caused by chronic bile reflux can lead to frequent symptoms of heartburn in affected patients, health officials at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore note 12. Symptoms of heartburn typically include a sensation of burning within the upper stomach, chest or throat. Patients with gastritis may notice that heartburn symptoms are worse after eating or during the night.

Nausea or Vomiting

Bile within the stomach due to bile reflux can cause significant irritation, which can lead to symptoms of nausea or vomiting in patients with gastritis 1. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and may contribute to a loss of appetite in certain patients. Vomit that contains blood or resembles coffee grounds can be indicative of severe intestinal or stomach damage, according to Medline Plus, and should be reported to a medical professional immediately.

Cough

Bile is an acidic substance that can inflame the delicate lining of the digestive tract. Patients who develop gastritis as a result of chronic bile reflux can experience frequent throat irritation due to this condition. Consequently, patients with this condition may develop occasional episodes of coughing that may be accompanied by a raspy or hoarse voice, Mayo Clinic doctors say.

Weight Loss

Stomach inflammation and irritation due to gastritis symptoms induced by bile reflux can cause severe indigestion--a condition also referred to as dyspepsia, the University of Maryland Medical Center medical professionals note 12. As a result, patients with this condition can experience appetite loss accompanied by significant, unintended weight loss.