Stomach Ulcer Treatment
If you have a stomach ulcer, you have many options for treatment. Acid blockers, NSAIDs, surgery, and diet are all available to you. Which one of these will best treat your condition? Read on to learn more about your options. If none of these work for you, try one of these. Your doctor will also prescribe a prescription medication. NSAIDs are a strong prescription for some people. If they don't work for you, try the antacids.
Acid blockers
Most people with stomach ulcers will be prescribed antacids to relieve pain. The antacids neutralise acid and produce a protective coating on the stomach lining. Several brands of antacids are available over the counter. Ask your pharmacist which one is right for you. It is important to take the antacid on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before mealtime. While antacids provide quick pain relief, they do not heal the ulcer. You can also try other pharmacological agents such as misoprostol and sucralfate.
An antacid may also alleviate your symptoms, but the pain will return after a while. If the ulcer is not treated, it may cause other complications. In severe cases, the ulcer can lead to internal bleeding and even a life-threatening complication known as sepsis. While it is common for stomach ulcers to recur, it is important to get medical care as soon as you experience pain.
NSAIDs
NSAIDs are versatile anti-inflammatory drugs that are widely used for a variety of medical conditions. Aspirin is an example of an NSAID and is used in small doses as an antiplatelet agent. It is important to note that even low doses of aspirin may damage the gastric mucosa. NSAIDs and aspirin derivatives should be used with caution because they can cause ulcers in some patients.
While NSAIDs have various possible side effects, the most common is stomach ulcer, which various factors may cause. People with known bleeding problems or a previous history of ulcers are more at risk. People with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other conditions may also experience increased risks with NSAIDs. People with renal impairment may also have an increased risk of developing ulcers, although the effects are less pronounced in elderly individuals.
Surgery
You should know what to expect before surgery for a peptic ulcer. Depending on your condition, you may need to reduce or stop using certain medications. Your healthcare provider may also adjust the dose of blood thinners. Medications to treat diabetes or anti-inflammatory conditions may be changed before the surgery. You should also avoid alcohol, smoking, spicy food, and foods high in acid. You will be asked to sign a consent form and have a preoperative blood chemistry panel. A peptic ulcer surgeon may recommend a change in your medications or prescribe a new one. Usually, you will stay overnight at the hospital, but if you are experiencing severe complications, your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatment.
If the symptoms are severe and do not respond to medications, surgery for a stomach ulcer may be necessary. While most cases of this condition improve after medical treatment, the complications can include bleeding, perforation, or obstruction. However, it would be best if you discussed this option with your healthcare provider before making any decisions. You should also know what to expect after the surgery, such as a postoperative diet. A postoperative diet will help you avoid complications.
Diet
One of the first things a physician will recommend to an ulcer patient is a change in diet and lifestyle. Inflammation-causing foods such as tomatoes and spicy peppers are not beneficial for people with stomach ulcers. However, a diet high in fibre, particularly soluble fibre, will reduce the risk of ulcers. It's also good for the gut's microbiome and reduces inflammation. Listed below are some foods you should include in your diet if you have an ulcer.
Keeping the amount of food high in fat to a minimum is important to keep an ulcer from worsening. Aim to eat at least five or six small meals a day. Each time you eat, your stomach produces acid, and a large meal will cause more acid production and discomfort. Additionally, eating upright after meals can help improve digestion and lessen acid reflux. Other tips for avoiding acid reflux include chewing your food thoroughly and slowly. Avoid frying, and stick to lower fat cooking methods. Avoid oils and citrus fruits.
