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 Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Is atrophic gastritis of the gastric antrum serious?

Atrophic gastritis is a chronic gastric disease characterized by repeated damage to the gastric mucosal epithelium, leading to the atrophy of the intrinsic glands, with or without intestinal metaplasia or pseudopyloric gland metaplasia. The main cause of this disease is infection by Helicobacter pylori. Symptoms primarily include upper abdominal distension, belching, acid reflux, early satiety, nausea, etc. Some patients may experience symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, memory loss, anxiety, and depression. The main treatment involves eradicating Helicobacter pylori, suppressing acid production, and using gastric mucosal protectants and prokinetic agents. The majority of patients have Helicobacter pylori-related gastritis, which after chronic inflammation (chronic non-atrophic gastritis) can lead to atrophic gastritis, followed by intestinal metaplasia or dysplasia, and eventually may progress to gastric cancer.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Why is a biopsy necessary for atrophic gastritis?

Atrophic gastritis is generally treated with biopsy, which is the standard for diagnosing atrophic gastritis, so biopsy is typically conducted when considering atrophic gastritis. Atrophic gastritis is increasingly common in clinical settings, especially among middle-aged and elderly patients. It begins with symptoms of chronic gastritis, such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and belching, and sometimes may include changes in appetite. Patients usually undergo gastroscopy, which shows atrophy of the gastric mucosa, alterations in red and white patches, or white-like mucosa. Histopathological examination can further support the atrophic changes. In clinical settings, when considering atrophic gastritis, treatment focuses on protecting the stomach and screening for Helicobacter pylori. If Helicobacter pylori is positive, treatment targeting Helicobacter pylori is recommended. Regular gastroscopic examinations are necessary, typically every six months to a year.

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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 Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Chronic non-atrophic gastritis

Chronic non-atrophic gastritis is also known as chronic superficial gastritis. It is a classification of chronic gastritis, which also includes chronic atrophic gastritis and special types of gastritis as other classifications. Chronic non-atrophic gastritis refers to a condition where the glands in the gastric mucosa do not show atrophy, thus it is called chronic non-atrophic gastritis. Generally, the endoscopic appearance of the gastric mucosa being hyperemic, edematous, or eroded can lead to a diagnosis of chronic non-atrophic gastritis. Treatment mainly focuses on acid suppression, protecting the stomach, promoting gastric motility, and protecting the gastric mucosa. If there is a positive Helicobacter pylori infection, eradication treatment for Helicobacter pylori is required. Patients with chronic non-atrophic gastritis should primarily consume a light and easy-to-digest diet.

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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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.