How to Treat Chronic Gastritis with Mixed Cold and Heat Patterns

Chronic gastritis with mixed cold and heat patterns presents a complex set of symptoms that can be challenging to manage. Patients often experience dull or intermittent stomach pain, bloating, discomfort, or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen. Additional symptoms may include belching, nausea, acid reflux, and a feeling of emptiness or irritation in the stomach known as “stomach noise.” Another key feature is sensitivity to cold foods—some individuals feel discomfort after consuming cooler items, yet find relief with warmth and gentle pressure on the stomach area. At the same time, they may suffer from dry mouth, bitter taste, and poor digestion, indicating both cold and heat imbalances.

To address this condition, traditional Chinese medicine recommends using both warming and cooling herbs together, along with formulas that regulate qi and harmonize the stomach. One of the most commonly prescribed herbal remedies for this syndrome is Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang (Pinellia and Coptis Decoction). This formula can be modified based on individual symptoms to better suit each patient's needs.

In addition to oral herbal therapy, acupuncture can play a supportive role in treatment. Key acupuncture points such as Neiguan (PC6), Zhongwan (CV12), and Zusanli (ST36) are typically used to relieve symptoms and improve digestive function. Additional points may be selected depending on the specific complaints of the patient.

Managing chronic gastritis also requires lifestyle adjustments. Diet plays a central role in maintaining gastric health. It's important to eat regular meals and avoid raw, cold, or hard-to-digest foods. Spicy and irritating foods should also be limited, as overeating or eating too quickly can lead to acute abdominal pain or even trigger heart-related issues in some cases. Chewing food slowly and thoroughly is encouraged to support healthy digestion.

Moreover, maintaining a balanced lifestyle is essential. Avoiding long-term sleep deprivation, staying warm, and engaging in moderate physical activity can all help strengthen the digestive system. Emotional well-being also has a direct impact on gut health—according to TCM theory, emotional stress and liver stagnation can easily lead to spleen deficiency, worsening digestive symptoms. Therefore, managing stress and maintaining a positive mindset are vital components of recovery.