What are the symptoms of atrophic gastritis?

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 27, 2024
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Atrophic gastritis, also known as body-type gastritis, is mainly caused by Helicobacter pylori infection leading to atrophy of the gastric mucosa. Under microscopy, twisted blood vessels and alternating red and white mucosa can be seen. The main symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. A reduction in parietal cells can lead to decreased secretion of intrinsic factor, thereby causing anemia with red blood cells. If atrophic gastritis is accompanied by ulcers, it can cause severe abdominal pain and bloody stools. It is important to adjust the diet, eat more soft and easily digestible foods, and consume fewer raw, cold, and spicy foods.

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Written by Li Ying
Gastroenterology
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Can chronic atrophic gastritis be cured?

Chronic atrophic gastritis is primarily a chronic digestive system disease caused by atypical hyperplasia. It is mainly characterized by upper abdominal dull pain, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss, anemia, etc., and lacks specificity. It is a disease caused by multiple pathogenic factors and is a precancerous lesion. There are many causes, including Helicobacter pylori infection and dietary factors, among others. Moreover, treatment for atrophic gastritis can be targeted based on the specific condition, clinical symptoms, and auxiliary examinations.

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
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Is non-atrophic gastritis serious?

Chronic non-atrophic gastritis, which is commonly referred to as chronic superficial gastritis, is considered one of the milder upper gastrointestinal diseases. Endoscopic examinations usually show localized mucosal congestion and edema, which are not severe. The main cause is likely due to Helicobacter pylori infection, which can be effectively treated with antibacterial therapy. Other factors, such as exposure to cold or inappropriate dietary habits, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption, can also lead to this condition. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to one’s dietary and living habits and try to avoid spicy and greasy foods and alcoholic beverages to prevent major issues.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Can I eat watermelon with atrophic gastritis?

Patients with atrophic gastritis can certainly eat watermelon, as long as it is consumed in small amounts. The diet for atrophic gastritis should primarily consist of easily digestible, clean foods, and avoid spicy and irritating foods, such as salted fish and alcohol intake, etc. Typically, patients with atrophic gastritis seek medical advice due to abdominal discomfort, exhibiting symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and early satiety. A comprehensive gastroscopy indicates inflammatory changes and atrophic alterations of the gastric mucosa. In terms of treatment, apart from dietary management, pharmacological treatment can be selected, including acid-reducing and gastric-protective medications, particularly suitable are traditional Chinese medicines that protect the stomach. It is advisable to supplement some vitamins and avoid spicy and pickled foods. Certainly, for atrophic gastritis, it is important to be cautious of concurrent Helicobacter pylori infection. If Helicobacter pylori infection is considered, anti-Helicobacter pylori treatment is recommended for the patient, followed by regular follow-ups, typically every six months to one year for a gastroscopy examination. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Gong Chun
Oncology
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Can atrophic gastritis lead to gastric cancer?

The development of gastric cancer, particularly intestinal-type gastric cancer, is a multi-stage process influenced by various factors. Chronic atrophic gastritis is primarily characterized by the atrophy and reduction of gastric mucosal glands. Consequently, it often accompanies varying degrees of metaplasia in the gastrointestinal mucosal epithelium. Chronic atrophic gastritis features a reduction in B cells of the gastric glands, and the pH value of gastric juice may increase. Hence, the relationship between chronic atrophic gastritis and gastric cancer is significant, as it is considered a precancerous lesion. Therefore, if one has atrophic gastritis, it is crucial to seek timely medical treatment to prevent worsening of the condition.

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
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Difference between atrophic gastritis and non-atrophic gastritis

Chronic gastritis includes two types: chronic non-atrophic gastritis and chronic atrophic gastritis. The symptoms of both can be similar, such as upper abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and heartburn. Chronic atrophic gastritis tends to be more severe than non-atrophic gastritis. Over the long term, atrophic gastritis may lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, and even anemia. The main differentiation still requires gastroscopy and pathological examination. Under gastroscopy, chronic superficial gastritis mainly shows mucosal congestion and edema. In atrophic gastritis, due to gland atrophy, the submucosal blood vessels may appear as a net-like or petal-like pattern, and sometimes the mucosa may become granular. Pathological examinations can further clarify the diagnosis.