Patient's question:
My mother is 59 years old and often suffers from stomach discomfort and pain. She avoids eating cold or raw food. A detailed gastroscopy examination at the hospital revealed atrophic gastritis, severe intestinal metaplasia of some glands, accompanied by glandular fibrosis. She has taken some medication, but the effect is not significant. The doctor mentioned the possibility of cancer transformation. We are all very worried. How should atrophic gastritis with glandular fibrosis be treated?Doctor's answer:
Chronic atrophic gastritis is a condition characterized by the atrophy or even disappearance of the glandular epithelium of the gastric mucosa, which may be accompanied by intestinal metaplasia and inflammatory reactions. Currently, there is no effective Western medicine treatment; medications that inhibit gastric acid secretion should not be taken. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment can reverse atrophic changes. It can be categorized under conditions such as stomach distention, epigastric pain, and stomach discomfort, which fall under the scope of spleen and stomach disorders. The onset is related to irregular diet, excessive fatigue, emotional distress, etc. It is often characterized by a combination of deficiency and excess, with deficiency being the root and excess being the manifestation. Over time, stagnation occurs, which is the secondary symptom. The key to treatment lies in tonifying qi, warming the middle, activating blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis. It is recommended to diagnose based on clinical manifestations, examination results, tongue coating, and pulse, and to adopt an individualized treatment plan. While taking medication, attention should be paid to a regular diet, moderate rest and activity, and maintaining a positive mood. Avoiding cold, raw, irritating foods, as well as alcohol and tobacco, is also important.