Can Gastritis Cause Shortness of Breath?
December 2, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining, typically doesn’t directly cause shortness of breath. However, in some cases, especially if gastritis is severe or chronic, it might indirectly lead to symptoms that could make a person feel short of breath or experience breathing difficulties.
Indirect connections between gastritis and shortness of breath might include:
- Pain and discomfort: Severe gastritis can cause significant abdominal pain or discomfort. In some cases, intense pain or discomfort in the abdomen might lead to shallow breathing or changes in breathing patterns that could make a person feel short of breath.
- Anemia: Chronic gastritis, especially if it leads to bleeding in the stomach, can result in anemia (low red blood cell count). Anemia can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and in some cases, shortness of breath due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
- Reflux symptoms: Gastritis can be associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus. Severe reflux symptoms might include a feeling of difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath due to irritation or inflammation in the esophagus.
While gastritis itself might not directly cause shortness of breath, if someone is experiencing breathing difficulties along with gastritis symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Shortness of breath can be a concerning symptom that might indicate other underlying issues, such as respiratory problems, heart conditions, or other medical issues unrelated to gastritis. Consulting a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis is important to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.