Can bile reflux gastritis turn into cancer?

Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 22, 2024
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Bile reflux gastritis is relatively common in clinical practice and is generally considered a type of chronic gastritis caused by bile reflux. Clinically, it presents with abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. A complete gastroscopic examination can confirm the diagnosis, showing gastric mucosal congestion, edema, and even erosion. Generally, bile reflux gastritis does not lead to cancer; however, it is recommended that patients undergo regular follow-ups, including gastroscopy and histopathological examination, especially for middle-aged and elderly patients who have had gastric diseases for many years. If the gastric mucosa shows signs of congestion, edema, and erosion—particularly if the erosion is atypical and irregular—a biopsy is recommended to rule out cancer. Thus, while bile reflux gastritis generally does not become cancerous, it is advisable for elderly patients to have regular follow-ups with gastroscopy and histopathological exams, typically every six months to a year.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
1min 28sec home-news-image

Is biliary reflux gastritis related to cholecystitis?

Bile reflux gastritis and cholecystitis are not necessarily related, they are two different diseases. Bile reflux gastritis is generally a type of chronic gastritis, mainly characterized by abdominal discomfort, with most patients experiencing abdominal pain such as dull pain, distension pain, and colic, among others. Of course, some patients also experience changes in appetite, nausea, belching, and burping, etc. Patients should visit the gastroenterology department of their local hospital for a gastroscopic examination to confirm the diagnosis. Under a gastroscopy, bile reflux gastritis primarily exhibits symptoms such as mucosal congestion and edema, accompanied by bile, thus confirming the diagnosis. Treatment involves dietary adjustments and medication. It is recommended that patients consume a light diet, develop good living and eating habits, and may choose acid-suppressing and stomach-protecting medications, with a treatment duration of 2-4 weeks. Cholecystitis, on the other hand, is generally a cholecystitis-related condition, typically exhibiting symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice, etc. The general treatment for cholecystitis primarily involves anti-infection therapy.

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Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
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What to do if bile reflux gastritis keeps recurring?

Bile reflux gastritis recurs, and an ultrasound examination is needed to determine the cause. If it is caused by conditions such as blockage of the common bile duct or bile duct stones, surgery can be considered when the condition is particularly severe. If it is caused by relaxation of the pyloric sphincter, surgery can also be considered for treatment. Generally, conservative treatment is recommended. If conservative treatment is ineffective and the condition recurs or even worsens, surgery can be considered at that time to improve symptoms.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
1min 6sec home-news-image

What to do with bile reflux gastritis?

The main symptoms of bile reflux gastritis include upper abdominal distension, belching, acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. A gastroscopy can reveal bile reflux into the stomach, which can then be diagnosed as bile reflux gastritis. The primary cause is closely related to poor gastric motility, so treatment mainly focuses on acid suppression, gastric protection, promoting gastric motility, and repairing the gastric mucosa, typically over a course of about six weeks. It is also recommended to increase physical activity, as exercise can promote gastrointestinal motility and enhance gastric power, which can have a positive effect on patients with bile reflux gastritis. In terms of diet, it is advised to consume light, easily digestible foods and to avoid fatty, rich, spicy, and other difficult-to-digest foods.

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Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
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Can people with bile reflux gastritis do heavy work?

Bile reflux gastritis is a disease of the digestive system. Avoid heavy physical labor as much as possible; engaging in strenuous physical activities can lead to stomach spasms, twitching, and increased contractions, and the bile reflux can irritate the esophageal mucosa. It is also important to rest regularly. When lying down, try to elevate the head to help alleviate the symptoms of reflux. Maintain a light diet; avoid overeating, and do not consume foods that are too greasy, too sweet, too sour, too spicy, or difficult to digest. Strictly abstain from alcohol.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How long does bile reflux gastritis take to heal?

How long it takes for bile reflux gastritis to improve varies based on an individual's constitution and medication usage. Clinically, we mainly adopt measures to suppress gastric acid secretion, protect the gastric mucosa, and selectively use antibiotics. During treatment, it is crucial to have regular meals and avoid overeating. It is also important to maintain personal hygiene and a regular routine. Good living habits play a significant role in aiding the treatment of reflux gastritis. Additionally, it is essential to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, and to keep a relaxed mood. If symptoms recur frequently, one should visit the gastroenterology department of a hospital for a detailed examination and proactive treatment.