Is traditional Chinese medicine or Western medicine better for treating chronic stomach diseases

The treatment options for chronic stomach diseases should be based on the specific condition and individual differences between traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine. Western medicine can quickly control symptoms during acute attacks, while traditional Chinese medicine has more advantages in treating chronic conditions based on syndrome differentiation.

Western medicine mainly uses drugs to inhibit gastric acid secretion and eradicate helicobacter pylori in the treatment of chronic stomach diseases. Common stomach acid suppressants include proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole enteric coated tablets and rabeprazole sodium enteric coated tablets, which can quickly alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux. For Helicobacter pylori positive patients, Western medicine uses bismuth containing quadruple therapy as the first-line treatment, and the eradication rate is usually higher after a 14 day course of treatment. Western medicine has technical advantages in gastroscopy examination and pathological diagnosis, which can clearly determine the degree of mucosal damage and timely detect precancerous lesions. Acute and chronic gastritis, as well as acute bleeding from gastric ulcers, can be effectively controlled. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment focuses on overall regulation of spleen and stomach function, and uses corresponding formulas according to different syndrome types. For those with spleen and stomach deficiency and cold, Fuzi Lizhong Wan or Huangqi Jianzhong Tang can be used to warm the spleen and invigorate the spleen; For patients with liver stomach disharmony, Chaihu Shugan San can be used to regulate qi function; The commonly used Banxia Xiexin Tang for clearing damp heat in the damp heat middle obstruction type. Acupuncture and moxibustion at Zusanli, Zhongwan and other acupoints can regulate gastrointestinal peristalsis, and moxibustion at Shenque has a significant effect on stomach pain of deficiency cold type. Traditional Chinese medicine dietary therapy emphasizes moderation in diet and recommends slow adjustment of ingredients such as yam and millet. For chronic diseases such as functional dyspepsia and gastric ptosis, progressive adjustment in traditional Chinese medicine can reduce the probability of recurrence.

It is necessary to maintain a regular diet, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, and engage in moderate exercise to enhance spleen and stomach function in daily life. During the treatment period, regular follow-up gastroscopy should be conducted. When combining traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment, the doctor should be informed of the medication situation to prevent drug interactions. Long term medication users need to monitor liver and kidney function, and seek medical attention promptly if stomach pain continues to worsen or black stool appears.