Acute Gastritis -> Chronic Symptoms -> Lactose Intoler

6 months ago I had a case of acute gastritis that required hospitalization. Previously I had no gut problems whatsoever. A follow-up endoscopy after 1.5 months showed a light inflammation was still present even though I had been taking proton pump inhibitors. Over the last 5 months I have continued to take the inhibitors - which controlled the symptoms of acid reflux and stomach pains (hot burning feeling) - but additional symptoms remained of fullness, knotted stomach, excessive flatulence and lower abdominal pressure. After a number (far too many!) months a recent test has indicated that I have a lactose intolerance. Where I would appreciate advice is (1) has anyone had a similar sequence of symptoms, (2) if so has there been a different or further diagnosis? (3) what could be additional factors leading to the symptoms?

I am fairly sure that the long-term affects of high acid production in the stomach could certainly lead to damage of the lactase-producing cells in the upper intestine as well as to the induction of other problems. (i.E. The primary cause of the (now chronic) gastritis is what needs to be treated).

Many thanks for your help