Treatment for Ulcers
01/10/2021
By Dr. Prabha Sawant in Gastroenterology
Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach.
Ulcers can also occur in part of the intestine just beyond the stomach. These are known as duodenal ulcers.
Both stomach and duodenal ulcers are sometimes referred to as peptic ulcers. Here the term stomach ulcer will be used, although the information applies equally to duodenal ulcers.
What are the treatments for an ulcer?
You shouldn’t treat an ulcer on your own without first seeing your doctor. Over-the-counter antacids and acid blockers may ease some or all of the pain, but the relief is always short-lived. With a doctor's help, you can find an end to ulcer pain as well as a lifelong cure for it.
The chief goals treatment of ulcer are reducing the amount of acid in the stomach and strengthening the protective lining that comes in direct contact with stomach acids. If your ulcer is caused by bacterial infection, your doctor will also treat that.
Medications
Most people will be prescribed a medication called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce the amount of acid their stomach produces and allow the ulcer to heal naturally. If an H. pylori infection is responsible for the ulcers, antibiotics will also be used to kill the bacteria, which should prevent the ulcer coming back. If the ulcers are caused by the use of NSAIDs, PPIs are usually prescribed, and your doctor will discuss whether you should keep using NSAIDs. Alternative medication to NSAIDs, such as paracetamol, may be recommended. Stomach ulcers can come back after treatment, although this is less likely to happen if the underlying cause is addressed.
Surgery
In certain cases, Surgery is best ulcer treatment. For instance, if the ulcer continues to return, will not heal, bleeds, or prevents food from leaving the stomach.
Surgery can include:
- Removing the ulcer
- Tying off bleeding blood vessels
- Sewing tissue from another site onto the ulcer
- Cutting the nerve that controls stomach acid production
Complications from stomach ulcers such as bleeding or perforation are rare. Either of these complications requires urgent medical attention.
Why should one choose Global Hospitals Mumbai?
- Western India’s leading multispecialty hospital equipped with technical labs for ulcer tests & treatment with specialized doctor for consultations.
- Patients served so far and well treated for Ulcer
- 100+ corporates trust us for the health checks of their employees
Call us for appointment - 02267670101 to know the lab options and make a booking at your convenient time. If you are contacting us as a patient or potential patient, please complete the form below or call us.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
What is the best treatment for ulcers?
Talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Your doctor may recommend antibiotics if an infection is present or possible, Medications to coat ulcer, Medications to protect stomach against NSAID damage and surgery if ulcer is serious.
What is the fastest way to cure a stomach ulcer?
If stomach ulcer is serious then for faster recovery doctor recommend surgery and/or endoscopy test.
What helps ulcers instantly heal?
To instantly heal avoid milk as it increases acid production, avoid smoking and alcohol, avoid spicy, fatty foods & coffee, avoid processed food and a high salt diet. In general, people with ulcers should use acetaminophen for over-the-counter pain relief. Unless your doctor has said it's OK, you should not use aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen sodium. If acetaminophen doesn't help with your pain, see your doctor. Also, Natural remedies for ulcers and gastritis are good for instant relief.
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