Is atrophic gastritis easy to treat?

Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
Updated on February 08, 2025
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Atrophic gastritis is a type of chronic gastritis characterized by the atrophy of gastric mucosal glands. It carries a certain risk of becoming cancerous. The main symptoms include upper abdominal pain, postprandial fullness, heartburn, indigestion, belching, and acid reflux. Gastroscope examination reveals atrophy of the gastric glands, and a biopsy is needed for a pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis of chronic atrophic gastritis. In terms of treatment, the first step is to eradicate Helicobacter pylori, which includes a regimen of one proton pump inhibitor, two antibiotics, and one bismuth agent, lasting for 14 days. This is followed by acid suppression and mucosal repair treatments. Additionally, the treatment with traditional Chinese medicine plays a significant role in managing atrophic gastritis. This condition is challenging to treat, has poor outcomes, is prone to relapse, and carries a risk of cancer transformation.

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Will atrophic gastritis and esophagitis cause significant weight loss?

Patients with atrophic gastritis and esophagitis may experience weight loss, as those with atrophic gastritis can have upper abdominal pain, distension pain, and burning pain, accompanied by a feeling of bloating and belching. Severe cases can lead to anemia and weight loss. The main cause of atrophic gastritis is infection by Helicobacter pylori. Of course, immune factors and dietary habits also play significant roles in the development of atrophic gastritis. Once atrophic gastritis is definitively diagnosed, it is crucial to actively eradicate Helicobacter pylori, as well as to quit smoking and drinking, and avoid using medications and consuming foods that may damage the gastric mucosa.

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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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What should I do if atrophic gastritis causes severe weight loss?

Patients with atrophic gastritis should be highly attentive if they experience significant weight loss and should receive standardized traditional treatments. Additionally, dietary habits also require careful attention; it is important to quit smoking and drinking alcohol, and to avoid using medications that damage the gastric mucosa, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids. Furthermore, eating habits should be regular, avoiding binge eating and foods that are too salty, spicy, or that are fried or deep-fried. Active treatment should also be directed against Helicobacter pylori, utilizing medications that protect the gastric mucosa, enhance its resistance to gastric acid, and improve the regenerative ability of gastric mucosal cells. Medications that inhibit bile reflux and improve gastric motility can also be employed.

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What are the symptoms before atrophic gastritis turns cancerous?

Patients with atrophic gastritis primarily exhibit symptoms such as dull pain, bloating, and burning pain in the upper abdomen, along with belching, acid reflux, weight loss, anemia, and more. If the pain from atrophic gastritis does not follow a clear pattern and is accompanied by progressive weight loss and refractory anemia, the possibility of cancerous changes in atrophic gastritis should be considered. It is advisable to promptly complete an endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy, and, if necessary, undertake a biopsy. In terms of treatment, it is first essential to test for Helicobacter pylori infection and then use medications to protect the gastric mucosa.

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What fruits should be avoided with atrophic gastritis?

The main dietary restrictions for atrophic gastritis include quitting smoking and drinking. It is important to eat less salty and overly hot foods, and to avoid spicy and irritating foods. In addition, patients should avoid coarse foods and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins. They should eat regularly, have small frequent meals, chew slowly, and maintain a pleasant mood. Patients with atrophic gastritis should maintain a regular diet and have periodic gastroscopy check-ups, as there is a potential for malignancy in atrophic gastritis patients.