Key points
- Burning, bloating, sour taste
- Meal timing matters
- Avoid painkillers without advice
- Black stools or vomiting blood = urgent
What it is
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. Acidity (acid reflux) is when stomach acid comes up into the food pipe, causing a burning feeling. The two often go together.
Most cases are linked to eating habits, stress, certain painkillers or an infection called H. pylori.
Common signs
- Burning in the upper stomach or chest (heartburn)
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Bloating, belching and feeling full quickly
- Nausea
- Discomfort that is worse on an empty stomach or after spicy food
Common causes
- Long gaps between meals, or late heavy dinners
- Spicy, fried or very oily food
- Tea, coffee and fizzy drinks in excess
- Painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen
- Smoking and alcohol
- Stress and poor sleep
Everyday care that helps
- Eat smaller meals at regular times — don't skip breakfast
- Finish dinner at least two to three hours before lying down
- Cut down on tea, coffee, spicy and fried foods
- Avoid painkillers without medical advice
- Raise the head of the bed slightly if acid comes up at night
- Walk for ten minutes after meals instead of lying down
When to see a doctor promptly
- Vomiting blood or material like coffee grounds
- Black, tarry stools
- Difficulty or pain in swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe, sudden stomach pain, or chest pain spreading to the arm or jaw
How we approach it at Gursagar
We take a detailed history of your symptoms, meal timings, food habits, stress, sleep and medicines, and check for warning signs.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for you individually, along with practical diet and routine advice, reviewed at follow-ups.
Common questions
Is milk good for acidity?
It may soothe briefly but can increase acid later for some people.
Should I test for H. pylori?
Your doctor may suggest it if symptoms keep returning.
Can I consult online?
Yes.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.