Dealing with Ulcers
More information about managing ulcers
What is an ulcer?
Ulcers are sores on the lining of your digestive tract. Your digestive tract consists of the esophagus, stomach,
duodenum and intestines. Most ulcers are located in the duodenum, and these ulcers are called duodenal ulcers.
Ulcers located in the stomach are called gastric ulcers. Ulcers in the esophagus are called esophageal ulcers.
A type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori causes many ulcers. Additionally, acid and other juices made by the
stomach can contribute to ulcers by burning the lining of your digestive tract. If your body makes too much acid or
if the lining of your digestive tract is damaged in some way, this might lead to ulcers. Physical or emotional
stress may not necessarily cause an ulcer, but it can certainly aggravate a preexisting one.
Ulcers may also be caused by anti-inflammatory medicines. Although most people take these medicines without
problems, long-term use may damage the stomach lining and cause ulcers. These drugs include aspirin, ibuprofen,
naproxen, ketoprofen and some prescription drugs for arthritis.
How will my doctor diagnose me?
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and may start you on some medicine before doing tests. Ulcers may feel
better within a week without treatment and you might not even need treatments if you feel better. If you don't get
better, your doctor may do an endoscopy or a special x-ray to study your digestive tract. Blood, breath, and biopsy
tests may all be used by your doctor to detect an ulcer.
Possible signs of an ulcer including feeling better when you eat or drink and then worse 1 or 2 hours later
(duodenal ulcer), feeling worse when you eat or drink (gastric ulcer), stomach pain that wakes you up at night,
feeling full fast, experiencing a heavy feeling, bloating, burning or dull pain in your stomach, vomiting or
unexpected weight loss
Ulcers can be treated by getting rid of H. pylori bacteria. Other treatments may focus more on lowering the amount
of acid that your stomach makes, neutralizing the acid and protecting the injured area so it can heal. Quitting
smoking and drinking is also important to help your stomach heal from ulcers.
What is triple therapy?
Triple therapy is a treatment to eliminate H. pylori bacteria and involves a combination of two antibiotics and
bismuth subsalicylate. Other treatments may also be available to help reduce the acid content in your stomach.
Tips on healing your ulcer
To avoid exacerbating your ulcer, refrain from smoking, avoid anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and
ibuprofen, avoid caffeine and alcohol (or have them only in small amounts and on a full stomach), and avoid spicy
foods if they cause heartburn.
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