When you hear the term “watermelon stomach,” it sounds almost playful, like something out of a summer picnic. But in reality, it’s the nickname for a rare and often serious medical condition called Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia (GAVE).
Doctors gave it this name because, under an endoscope, the lining of the stomach shows bright red streaks that look just like the stripes on a watermelon. Unfortunately, this pattern is not harmless—it’s caused by fragile, enlarged blood vessels that can bleed over time.
The bleeding usually happens slowly, which makes it tricky to notice at first. People may just feel unusually tired, weak, or short of breath, not realizing that the real cause is hidden in their stomach. Some may spot warning signs in their stools, which can turn black or bloody due to internal bleeding. By the time symptoms are clear, many patients are already dealing with anemia from chronic blood loss.
So who is at risk? Watermelon stomach is often seen in people who already have other health conditions. It’s commonly linked with liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, as well as autoimmune disorders like systemic sclerosis. It can also appear in those living with long-term illnesses such as chronic kidney disease. That’s why doctors often check for it when patients with these conditions report unexplained fatigue or blood loss.
The good news is that watermelon stomach is treatable. The most common option is endoscopic therapy, where doctors use special tools—like argon plasma coagulation—to seal off the bleeding vessels. Medications may also help, and in rare, severe cases, surgery is considered. With timely treatment, many patients can manage the condition and regain their strength.
Watermelon stomach is rare, but its impact is real. A name that sounds lighthearted actually masks a condition that can quietly drain a person’s health. Awareness matters—because recognizing the symptoms early could mean the difference between silent suffering and effective treatment.
So, the next time you hear “watermelon stomach,” you’ll know it’s not about fruit at all, but about a hidden condition that deserves serious attention.