We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Medicine

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Most Common Gastric Ulcer Treatments?

By Meshell Powell
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,614
Share

Gastric ulcers are common digestive problems that can have a variety of causes. Some of the most common treatments include the use of prescription antibiotics, over-the-counter or prescription acid reducers, and antacids. Eating a healthy diet and limiting alcohol intake can be effective treatments for many people. Additionally, reducing stress and not smoking may help prevent many of the negative symptoms associated with gastric ulcers.

A certain type of bacteria known as H. pylori is thought to contribute to the development of gastric ulcers much of the time. When an ulcer is suspected, the doctor may order tests to find out if this bacteria is present in the digestive tract. If H. pylori is found, a combination of antibiotics is typically prescribed. Antibiotic therapy is often used in conjunction with other gastric ulcer treatments.

Acid-reducing medications known as proton pump inhibitors are among the most commonly used gastric ulcer treatments. Reducing acid production often speeds up the healing process for the ulcer. This type of medication is available both over the counter and in prescription-strength formulations. There may be negative side effects associated with long-term use of these medications, and many doctors will suggest a calcium supplement to help avoid some of these side effects.

Healthy dietary habits can sometimes be quite useful gastric ulcer treatments. There should be plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in the diet to promote internal healing. It may also help to eat several small meals per day, as overeating at one sitting often aggravates the symptoms of a gastric ulcer.

Stress and smoking have not been conclusively found to cause ulcers, but these factors may aggravate the symptoms of an ulcer that already exists. Patients who smoke are typically advised to quit. Relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga may help to diffuse stressful situations and reduce the number of painful episodes associated with the presence of gastric ulcers. Alcohol consumption may also aggravate symptoms for many people, so it is often suggested that those with gastric ulcers limit or eliminate alcohol usage, at least until the ulcer heals.

Occasionally, gastric ulcers may cause severe complications, such as bleeding. If this occurs or if other gastric ulcer treatments have been unsuccessful, surgery may be required to repair the damaged stomach lining and stop the bleeding. Any questions or concerns about the most appropriate gastric ulcer treatments for an individual situation should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-most-common-gastric-ulcer-treatments.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.