If you’ve been told you have a gastric ulcer, the first thing to know is that you can get better – often without surgery. Most ulcers are caused by an infection or a medication, and fixing those triggers is the easiest way to start feeling better.
Two big culprits show up most of the time: Helicobacter pylori (the bacteria that lives in the stomach) and non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. If you’re on a regular NSAID, stopping or switching to a safer pain reliever can shrink the ulcer fast. If the test shows H. pylori, a short course of antibiotics will clear the infection.
Doctors usually start with three groups of drugs. First are proton‑pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole or esomeprazole. They reduce stomach acid, giving the ulcer a break and letting it heal. You’ll take a PPI once or twice daily for 4‑8 weeks.
Second, H2‑blockers such as ranitidine or famotidine can be used if PPIs don’t suit you. They’re a bit weaker but still cut acid enough for many people.
Third, if H. pylori is present, a triple‑therapy regimen is prescribed: two antibiotics (usually clarithromycin and amoxicillin or metronidazole) plus a PPI. The combo is taken for 10‑14 days and clears the bacteria in most cases.
Sometimes doctors add a medication called misoprostol or a protective agent like sucralfate to coat the ulcer and keep acid away. These are less common but helpful for people who can’t take PPIs.
What you eat matters a lot. Skip spicy foods, citrus, coffee, and alcohol while the ulcer heals – they can irritate the lining and bring back pain. Instead, focus on bland, easy‑to‑digest meals: oatmeal, bananas, boiled potatoes, and steamed vegetables.
Eat smaller portions more often. A big, heavy dinner can flood your stomach with acid. Aim for five to six small meals a day and finish eating at least two hours before bedtime.
Quitting smoking is a must. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the stomach lining and makes ulcers slower to heal. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor about nicotine patches or counseling.
Stress doesn’t cause ulcers directly, but it can make symptoms feel worse. Simple stress‑busting habits – a short walk, breathing exercises, or a favorite hobby – can keep your gut calmer.
Finally, keep an eye on any meds you’re taking. If you need pain relief, talk to your doctor about acetaminophen or topical options instead of NSAIDs. Some supplements, like high‑dose vitamin C, can also irritate the stomach, so use them cautiously.
With the right mix of medication, bacterial testing, and smart lifestyle tweaks, most gastric ulcers heal in a few weeks. If symptoms linger after treatment, go back to your doctor – sometimes a longer therapy or a different drug is needed.
Remember, the goal is to protect the stomach lining while the ulcer repairs itself. Stick to the plan, avoid the triggers, and you’ll be back to normal meals soon enough.
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