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Contents
  • What Causes Peptic Ulcers?
  • How Are Peptic Ulcers Diagnosed and Treated?
  • Preventing Recurrence and Complications

What Is Peptic Ulcer Disease and How Is It Treated?

What Is Peptic Ulcer Disease and How Is It Treated?

The Basics of Stomach Ulcers

Peptic ulcer disease occurs when painful sores develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. Understanding this common condition and its treatments can help you manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Contents
  • What Causes Peptic Ulcers?
  • How Are Peptic Ulcers Diagnosed and Treated?
  • Preventing Recurrence and Complications

What Causes Peptic Ulcers?

The two main causes of peptic ulcers are H. pylori bacteria and frequent use of pain medications called NSAIDs. H. pylori can infect the stomach lining, while NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen can irritate it. Less common causes include smoking, excessive alcohol use, and stress. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.

How Are Peptic Ulcers Diagnosed and Treated?

Doctors diagnose peptic ulcers through tests like endoscopy or breath tests for H. pylori. Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid, like proton pump inhibitors. If H. pylori is present, antibiotics are prescribed to eliminate the infection. Patients are advised to avoid NSAIDs and other irritants. Most ulcers heal within 4-8 weeks of starting treatment.
Peptic ulcer disease involves painful sores in the stomach lining or small intestine caused by H. pylori infection or NSAID use.

Preventing Recurrence and Complications

After initial treatment, some patients may need ongoing medication to prevent ulcers from returning. This is especially important for those who must continue taking NSAIDs. Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress can also help prevent recurrence. Regular check-ups may be recommended to monitor healing and catch any complications early.

FAQs

Can diet affect peptic ulcers?

While no specific diet cures ulcers, avoiding irritating foods may help symptoms.

How common are peptic ulcers?

About 1 in 10 people will develop a peptic ulcer in their lifetime.

Are peptic ulcers dangerous?

If left untreated, ulcers can lead to serious complications like bleeding or perforation.

Key Takeaways

With proper diagnosis and treatment, most peptic ulcers can be effectively managed and healed.
If you're experiencing persistent stomach pain, talk to Doctronic about whether you should be evaluated for peptic ulcer disease.
Additional References
  1. Malfertheiner P, et al. Management of Helicobacter pylori infection-the Maastricht V/Florence Consensus Report. Gut 2017; 66:6.
  2. Sverdén E, et al. Peptic ulcer disease. BMJ 2019; 367:l5495.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.