Anti-acid medicine may be used for two to six weeks to help healing and relieve pain. Ulcers caused by H. pylori can heal after the bacteria are killed. Typically, you will take antibiotics along with acid-suppressing medicine for two weeks.
Full Answer
How to cure a peptic ulcer quickly and easily?
Jul 29, 2021 · The infection and peptic ulcer will heal only if you take all medicines as your doctor prescribes. When you have finished your medicines, your doctor may do another breath or stool test in 4 weeks or more to be sure the H. pylori infection is gone.
How do you get rid of peptic ulcers?
If your doctor determines that you have an H. pylori infection, you will need treatment for that as well. The goal of treatment for peptic ulcer disease is to: Relieve symptoms; Heal lesions; Prevent recurrences; Prevent complications; Treatments for peptic ulcer disease include: Medication; Surgery; Sometimes, treatment leads to complications.
What is best cure for peptic ulcer?
Oct 08, 2019 · If H-pylori infection is the cause of your ulcer, the goal of the treatment is to drive away the infection and reduce the stomach acid level. The standard treatment usually involves some of the following approaches for 1-2 weeks or more [ 2 ]: Antibiotics to kill the bacteria (H-pylori). Doctors usually prescribe more than one type of antibiotic.
Does Ayurveda cure peptic ulcer?
Apr 29, 2021 · A: If you have peptic ulcer disease, which can involve stomach ulcers and/or duodenal ulcers of the small intestine, the answer is yes! These ulcers can be completely healed. Cleveland Clinic is a ...
Can a peptic ulcer heal?
Treatment for peptic ulcers is often successful, leading to ulcer healing. But if your symptoms are severe or if they continue despite treatment, your doctor may recommend endoscopy to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms.
How to treat peptic ulcers?
Treatment for peptic ulcers depends on the cause. Usually treatment will involve killing the H. pylori bacterium if present, eliminating or reducing use of NSAIDs if possible, and helping your ulcer to heal with medication. Medications can include: Antibiotic medications to kill H. pylori.
Does bismuth help with peptic ulcers?
Products containing bismuth may help with symptoms of a peptic ulcer. There is also some evidence that zinc can help heal ulcers. Mastic powder, the product of a type of evergreen shrub, may also help improve symptoms and speed healing of peptic ulcers.
How to detect ulcers in the stomach?
Endoscopy. An endoscopy procedure involves inserting a long, flexible tube (endoscope) down your throat and into your esophagus. A tiny camera on the end of the endoscope lets your doctor examine your esophagus, stomach and the beginning of your small intestine (duodenum). To detect an ulcer, your doctor may first take a medical history ...
How to detect ulcers?
To detect an ulcer, your doctor may first take a medical history and perform a physical exam. You then may need to undergo diagnostic tests, such as: Laboratory tests for H. pylori. Your doctor may recommend tests to determine whether the bacterium H. pylori is present in your body.
How to test for H pylori?
He or she may look for H. pylori using a blood, stool or breath test. The breath test is the most accurate. For the breath test, you drink or eat something that contains radioactive carbon. H. pylori breaks down the substance in your stomach. Later, you blow into a bag, which is then sealed.
What is the upper gastrointestinal series?
Sometimes called a barium swallow, this series of X-rays of your upper digestive system creates images of your esophagus, stomach and small intestine. During the X-ray, you swallow a white liquid (containing barium) that coats your digestive tract and makes an ulcer more visible.
What is the treatment for peptic ulcer disease?
The goal of treatment for peptic ulcer disease is to: Relieve symptoms. Heal lesions. Prevent recurrences. Prevent complications. Treatments for peptic ulcer disease include: Medication. Surgery.
What are the complications of peptic ulcers?
The three major complications of peptic ulcer disease treatment are: 1 Hemorrhage (excessive bleeding) 2 Perforation/penetration, due to the ulcer burning through the stomach wall 3 Gastric outlet obstruction, or pyloric stenosis, occurs when the pylorus narrows. The pylorus is the opening from the stomach into the small intestine.
How to treat ulcers with antacids?
Several different medication therapies are available to help reduce gastric acid and coat the ulcers: 1 Antacids neutralize gastric acid. The disadvantage is that you need to take a relatively large dose for them to be effective, and they can cause unwanted side effects like diarrhea. 2 Histamine (H2) blockers reduce gastric acid by blocking the H2 receptors. These medications decrease acid secretion and are a relatively safe treatment option. 3 Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are drugs that block the three major pathways for acid production. PPIs suppress acid production much more effectively than H2 blockers. PPIs are the gold standard in medication therapy of peptic ulcer disease. 4 Medications to protect and strengthen the mucous lining of the stomach 5 Antibiotics to treat H. pylori if it is detected
What is the best treatment for gastric ulcers?
Several different medication therapies are available to help reduce gastric acid and coat the ulcers: Antacids neutralize gastric acid . The disadvantage is that you need to take a relatively large dose for them to be effective, and they can cause unwanted side effects like diarrhea.
What is gastric outlet obstruction?
Gastric outlet obstruction, or pyloric stenosis, occurs when the pylorus narrows. The pylorus is the opening from the stomach into the small intestine. There are a number of options available to treat these complications, including endoscopic therapy. See illustration: endoscopic therapy procedure.
Can H2 blockers cause diarrhea?
The disadvantage is that you need to take a relatively large dose for them to be effective, and they can cause unwanted side effects like diarrhea. Histamine (H2) blockers reduce gastric acid by blocking the H2 receptors. These medications decrease acid secretion and are a relatively safe treatment option.
How long does it take for an ulcer to heal after stopping it?
Ulcers caused by a medication should begin healing shortly after you stop taking the drug. Anti-acid medicine may be used for two to six weeks to help healing and relieve pain.
How to prevent peptic ulcers?
pylori can usually be prevented if you get appropriate treatment for your first ulcer. This should include antibiotics that kill the bacteria. You may help to prevent peptic ulcers by: Avoiding smoking.
What is a peptic ulcer?
A peptic ulcer is a sore or hole that forms in the lining of the stomach or intestine. The word "peptic" refers to the digestive tract. An ulcer in the lining of the stomach is a gastric ulcer. An ulcer in the first part of the small intestine is a duodenal ulcer. The lining of the stomach is a layer of special cells and mucous.
What is the name of the ulcer in the stomach?
An ulcer in the lining of the stomach is a gastric ulcer. An ulcer in the first part of the small intestine is a duodenal ulcer. The lining of the stomach is a layer of special cells and mucous. Mucous prevents the stomach and duodenum from being damaged by acid and digestive enzymes.
Can a peptic ulcer cause bleeding?
Peptic ulcers are very common. They become more common as people age. The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is believed to cause most peptic ulcers.
What are the risk factors for peptic ulcers?
Risk factors include: Family history. Smoking (particularly if you are infected with H. pylori) Excessive alcohol use. However, contrary to popular belief, stress and spicy foods do not seem to increase the risk of ulcers.
How to treat a perforated peptic ulcer?
Blood transfusions may be necessary if the bleeding is severe. In rare circumstances, surgery may be needed to treat a perforated or bleeding peptic ulcer.
Can a peptic ulcer heal?
A Word From Verywell. Living with a peptic ulcer can be uncomfortable, but there are things you can do to relieve symptoms and heal. If you think you may have an ulcer, speak to your doctor. With the right treatment plan, reduced stress, and lifestyle modifications, you should be on your way to healing soon.
Can peptic ulcers be treated with medication?
Many times, peptic ulcers can be successfully treated with medication. In some cases, however, ulcers can be severe and cause internal bleeding requiring surgery. Surgical procedures for ulcers include: Vagotomy: The vagus nerve sends messages from the brain to the stomach.
What is the best medicine for ulcers?
The first line of treatment for many people with ulcers is OTC medications to relieve symptoms. Two common non-prescription medications are: 1 Antacids: Tums, Alka-Seltzer, Milk of Magnesia, Maalox, Mylanta, and Rolaids are over-the-counter antacids that offer temporary relief from ulcer pain by neutralizing stomach acid. They may also have a mucosal protective role. 2 Bismuth subsalicylate: Sold under the brand name Pepto-Bismal, bismuth subsalicylate has both a protective effect and an antibacterial effect against H. pylori. Used to treat digestive disorders since the early 1900s, Pepto-Bismal comes as a liquid, tablet, or chewable tablets.
What is a peptic ulcer?
Updated on June 16, 2021. A peptic ulcer is a sore or lesion that forms in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. Peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that lives in the mucous lining of the stomach and intestine. Symptoms of these ulcers include pain, discomfort, heartburn, ...
What causes peptic ulcers?
Peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that lives in the mucous lining of the stomach and intestine. Symptoms of these ulcers include pain, discomfort, heartburn, nausea, or gas, though some people may not experience any symptoms at all.
Is stress a risk factor for peptic ulcers?
3 In fact, a 2016 study published in the journal BMC Gastroenterology tracked 17,525 residents of a community in Denmark and found that people with the highest level of perceived everyday life stress were at greater risk for peptic ulcers.
Can you eat spicy food with peptic ulcers?
In the past, doctors advised people with peptic ulcers to avoid spicy, fatty, and acidic foods. However, since the discovery that H. pylori is the underlying cause of ulcers and the advent of effective medications to treat infection, a bland diet is no longer recommended.
How long does it take for a stomach ulcer to go away?
These symptoms include [ 1 ]: Stomach pain, which is also the most common symptom of stomach ulcer. It may last several minutes to a few hours. The pain usually gets worse when the stomach is empty, when there is almost no food that buffers your stomach acid.
Can peptic ulcers cause heartburn?
Appetite loss, which is usually followed with weight changes (unintentional weight loss). Heartburn is also quite common in people with peptic ulcer.
What is a stomach ulcer?
Stomach ulcer — as the name suggests — is an open sore with inflammation that forms on the inside lining of the stomach. If left untreated it may turn to become serious, leading to dangerous complications. So it’s usually necessary to take prompt treatment to deal with!
What is the cause of a duodenal ulcer?
But in most cases, it is caused by bacteria called H-pylori (Helicobacter pylori). H-pylori infection is infection at the inner surface of the stomach caused by H-pylori. Sometimes the infection occurs on the inside lining of the upper portion of small intestine, causing peptic ulcer called duodenal ulcer.
How does H pylori spread?
For example, it may spread through contaminated water or food. Or it may spread through direct contact with vomit, saliva, or fecal matter. H-pylori infection is more common during childhood, but it can also occur during adulthood. Worldwide, more than half the people may have it at some point in their life.
Can H pylori be spread through saliva?
Worldwide, more than half the people may have it at some point in their life. The good news, it doesn’t always cause serious problem.
Can H pylori cause ulcers?
In fact many people with H-pylori infection don’ t develop stomach ulcer (though this infection is the leading cause of the disease). This suggests that there are other risk factors of stomach ulcer. For examples: Some people may have more powerful immune system.
Can peptic ulcers heal?
A: If you have peptic ulcer disease, which can involve stomach ulcers and/or duodenal ulcers of the small intestine, the answer is yes! These ulcers can be completely healed. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.
What causes ulcers in the stomach?
These types of ulcers are caused primarily by three things: Stomach acids, H. pylori infections and medications, such as aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil® and Motrin®) and naproxen (Aleve®).
Does stress cause ulcers?
Contrary to popular belief, the normal stress of day-to-day life does not cause or contribute to ulcers. Also, there’s no genetic link involved with the risk for developing ulcers, and diet has no effect on the healing of an ulcer either. Advertising Policy. — Gastroenterologist Michael Kirsch, MD.
What is the treatment for peptic ulcers?
The range of treatments offered to people with peptic ulcer disease includes antibiotics and other medicines, endoscopy for complications such as bleeding, and surgery.
Does Mayo Clinic require a referral?
In most cases, Mayo Clinic doesn't require a physician referral. Some insurers require referrals, or may have additional requirements for certain medical care.
What is the best way to heal an ulcer?
Provide the protein and other nutrients your body needs to heal. Help you eliminate foods that aggravate the lining of your stomach or small intestine. Help to control related conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or bacterial infections, which might be contributing to your ulcer .
How to treat ulcers?
The ulcer diet, combined with your doctor's treatment advice, can bring relief because it can: 1 Correct nutritional deficiencies that contribute to your symptoms 2 Provide the protein and other nutrients your body needs to heal 3 Help you avoid foods that irritate the stomach lining or small intestine 4 Help with related conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or bacterial infections
Can you eat while on an ulcer diet?
You should stay on an ulcer diet until your doctor tells you your ulcer is completely healed. Afterward, you can resume your normal way of eating. However, if you feel better while on the diet or you have risk factors for ulcers, like smoking, this way of eating may be worth continuing—even if in a modified way.
Is ulcer diet bad for you?
An ulcer diet should not have a negative impact on your nutrition status. As long as you maintain good variety in your diet, any nutrients the foods you are limiting contain will be provided by other foods.
What fruits are good for ulcers?
Fruits: Any fresh or frozen fruits are good and contribute beneficial fiber and antioxidants. Berries, apples, grapes, and pomegranates are among the best choices for ulcer healing polyphenols. If citrus fruits or juices like orange or grapefruit trigger reflux, avoid those.
What vegetables are good for reflux?
Vegetables: Leafy greens, bright red and orange vegetables, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that are especially good for your overall health and healing. Avoid spicy peppers and tomatoes/tomato products if they cause reflux.
What foods can help with ulcers?
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines provide omega-3 fats, which can reduce inflammation and may be helpful in preventing another ulcer. Fermented dairy: Products like kefir and Greek yogurt provide probiotics along with protein, so they're good choices.
Diagnosis
- To detect an ulcer, your doctor may first take a medical history and perform a physical exam. You then may need to undergo diagnostic tests, such as: 1. Laboratory tests for H. pylori. Your doctor may recommend tests to determine whether the bacterium H. pylori is present in your body. He or she may look for H. pylori using a blood, stool or breath test. The breath test is the most accurat…
Treatment
- Treatment for peptic ulcers depends on the cause. Usually treatment will involve killing the H. pylori bacterium if present, eliminating or reducing use of NSAIDsif possible, and helping your ulcer to heal with medication. Medications can include: 1. Antibiotic medications to kill H. pylori. If H. pylori is found in your digestive tract, your doctor may recommend a combination of antibioti…
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- You may find relief from the pain of a stomach ulcer if you: 1. Consider switching pain relievers.If you use pain relievers regularly, ask your doctor whether acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may be an option for you. 2. Control stress.Stress may worsen the signs and symptoms of a peptic ulcer. Consider the sources of your stress and do what you can...
Alternative Medicine
- Products containing bismuth may help with symptoms of a peptic ulcer. There is also some evidence that zinc can help heal ulcers. Mastic powder, the product of a type of evergreen shrub, may also help improve symptoms and speed healing of peptic ulcers. While certain over-the-counter and alternative medications may be helpful, evidence on effectiveness is lacking. Theref…
Preparing For Your Appointment
- Make an appointment with your regular doctor if you have signs or symptoms that worry you. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist in the digestive system (gastroenterologist). It's a good idea to be well prepared for your appointment. Here's some information to help you get ready, and what you can expect from your doctor.
What Is A Peptic Ulcer?
Symptoms
- Most people with ulcers complain of a burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen. This typically occurs when the stomach is empty. These symptoms may be worse at night or upon waking. However, some people's pain may worsen when they eat. Other symptoms include: 1. Nausea 2. Vomiting 3. Loss of appetite 4. Bloating 5. Burping 6. Weight loss Some of these sym…
Diagnosis
- If your health care professional suspects that you have a peptic ulcer, he or she may recommend one of the following tests: 1. A blood antibody test for evidence of H. pyloriinfection. This test is widely available and simple to do. If the test is positive, treatment might be given without more invasive tests. However, the H. pylori blood test is not always accurate. The test results may rem…
Expected Duration
- Ulcers caused by a medication should begin healing shortly after you stop taking the drug. Anti-acid medicine may be used for two to six weeks to help healing and relieve pain. Ulcers caused by H. pylorican heal after the bacteria are killed. Typically, you will take antibiotics along with acid-suppressing medicine for two weeks. Then you may take ...
Prevention
- Peptic ulcers are not usually preventable the first time around. Infection with H. pyloriis extremely common. It is probably spread from person to person. Crowded living space appears to be a risk factor. Good hygiene may limit the spread of H. pylorisomewhat. This includes washing your hands thoroughly before eating and after using the bathroom. Recurrent ulcers from H. pylorica…
Treatment
- For ulcers caused by H. pylori, treatment requires a combination of medications. The goals of treatment are to: 1. Kill H. pyloribacteria in the body 2. Reduce the amount of acid in the stomach 3. Protect the lining of the stomach and intestines Most patients are treated with "triple therapy." This requires taking two antibiotics and one acid-suppressing medication for one to two weeks. …
When to Call A Professional
- Call for medical advice if you have continuing abdominal pain or indigestion. Also call if you need to take antacids frequently to prevent these symptoms. 1. Seek emergency care if you experience: 2. A sudden sharp pain in your abdomen 3. Bloody or black vomit 4. Maroon or black stools
Prognosis
- With proper treatment, the outlook for peptic ulcers is excellent. To prevent another ulcer, people who have had a peptic ulcer should avoid: 1. Aspirin (unless a low dose is needed to prevent a heart attack or stroke) 2. NSAIDs 3. Excessive alcohol 4. Smoking
Further Information
- Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Medical Disclaimer
Over-The-Counter (OTC) Therapies
- The first line of treatment for many people with ulcers is OTC medications to relieve symptoms. Two common non-prescription medications are: 1. Antacids:Tums, Alka-Seltzer, Milk of Magnesia, Maalox, Mylanta, and Rolaids are over-the-counter antacids that offer temporary relief from ulcer pain by neutralizing stomach acid. They may also have a mucosal protective role. 2. Bismuth su…
Home Remedies and Lifestyle
- While medication is likely necessary to heal peptic ulcers, there are a few things you can do at home to help relieve symptoms and help to speed healing.
Surgeries and Specialist-Driven Procedures
- Many times, peptic ulcers can be successfully treated with medication. In some cases, however, ulcers can be severe and cause internal bleeding requiring surgery. Surgical procedures for ulcers include: 1. Vagotomy: The vagus nerve sends messages from the brain to the stomach. A vagotomy cuts part of the nerve that controls acid-secretion, reducing...
Complementary Alternative Medicine
- There is limited evidence to support the use of supplements, herbs, homeopathy, and other complementary medicine methods to treat peptic ulcers and relieve symptoms. The following supplements may be effective but speak with your healthcare provider before incorporating them into your treatment plan.
A Word from Verywell
- Living with a peptic ulcer can be uncomfortable, but there are things you can do to relieve symptoms and heal. If you think you may have an ulcer, speak to your healthcare provider. With the right treatment plan, reduced stress, and lifestyle modifications, you should be on your way to healing soon.