Gastritis
What do "atrophic gastritis" and "intestinal metaplasia" mean in an endoscopy report?
Gastritis is more of a condition than a specific disease name.
Not everyone who experiences heartburn or indigestion has gastritis, and even if gastritis is seen during an endoscopy, symptoms may often be absent.
- Acute Gastritis: This can be caused by alcohol, pain relievers, stress, or infection. It usually resolves well by eliminating the cause and using acid suppressants.
- Functional Dyspepsia: This refers to cases where the endoscopy appears normal but there is still a feeling of fullness or discomfort – it's related to problems with digestive motility and sensation. It doesn't necessarily mean there's no underlying issue, but rather that the treatment approach differs.
- If you experience indigestion lasting for more than 4 weeks, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or black stools, please undergo an endoscopy examination.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
If you received a diagnosis of atrophic gastritis or intestinal metaplasia,
This is a common finding seen during routine endoscopic examinations, where the stomach lining has thinned due to chronic inflammation (atrophic gastritis) and changed to resemble the intestinal lining (intestinal metaplasia).
- This indicates a slightly increased risk of stomach cancer, but it does not mean you have cancer – most people live their lives without any problems.
- There are two things you should do: test for and eradicate Helicobacter pylori (to reduce the risk), and have regular endoscopies every 1-2 years (to detect any abnormalities early).
- Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and limiting salty and processed foods can be helpful.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Frequently asked questions
Does atrophic gastritis ever go back to normal?
While it is difficult to completely reverse the condition, some reports indicate that symptoms improve or progression stops after Helicobacter pylori eradication. The key is not to focus on reversal, but rather on managing the condition through regular check-ups.
Is cabbage juice or cabbage extract good for the stomach?
The evidence that cabbage heals the stomach is weak. A balanced diet is usually sufficient, and if you have symptoms, diagnosis and treatment should be prioritized.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
Rules and costs can change. Before you make an important decision, check the official page for the latest information.