What symptom is commonly associated with acute gastritis?

Acute gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the gastric mucosa and typically presents with symptoms related to gastric discomfort. The most commonly associated symptom is gnawing or burning epigastric distress. This type of pain arises from the inflammation and irritation of the stomach lining, often leading to sensations that can feel like discomfort or burning in the upper abdominal area. These symptoms often arise suddenly and can be exacerbated by factors like NSAID use, alcohol consumption, or infection, such as that from H. pylori.

The other options list symptoms that are not typically associated with acute gastritis. For instance, severe lower abdominal pain is more indicative of conditions like appendicitis or diverticulitis. Constipation and bloating are more commonly linked to gastrointestinal disorders unrelated to gastritis, while persistent diarrhea could suggest other issues such as infections or inflammatory bowel disease. Thus, the characteristic symptom of gnawing or burning epigastric distress truly aligns with the clinical presentation of acute gastritis.