This requires both medical and lifestyle approaches.
For example, antibiotics are used to treat cases due to the bacteriumHelicobacter pylori(H. pylori).
Antacids are used to neutralize acid and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be used to suppress it.
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Some cases are cured, while others may recur after treatment.
Antibiotics
IfH.
Most ulcers caused byH.
pyloriare cured with treatment and do not recur.
However, for some patients, their ulcers return, and they must continue maintenance therapy for years.
H2-Blockers
Most healthcare providers treat ulcers (stomach or duodenal) with these acid-suppressing drugs.
They reduce pain significantly after several weeks.
For the first few days of treatment, healthcare providers often recommend also taking an antacid to relieve pain.
The treatment initially lasts six to eight weeks.
Prilosec (omeprazole) has been used for short-term treatment of ulcer disease.
Instead, they shield the stomach’s mucus lining from the damage of the acid.
Quit Smoking
Smoking has been shown to delay ulcer healing and has been linked to ulcer recurrence.
Therefore, if you smoke, you should venture to quit.
Avoid Alcohol
Drinking alcohol can inhibit ulcer healing and exacerbate symptoms.
That’s because alcohol increases the production of stomach acid, which will irritate an ulcer.
However, since the discovery thatH.
(It won’t cause harm, but it likely won’t help either.)
Some people who have peptic ulcers can eat whatever they want with no problems.
For many others, however, eating certain foods can cause irritation, excessive acid production, andheartburn.
Some common foods that exacerbate ulcer symptoms are coffee,milk, alcoholic beverages, and fried foods.
In general, a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is best.
Eating foods rich in flavonoids or polyphenols may also have protective effects.
These foods include olive oil, grapes, dark cherries, and a wide range of berries.
Some research suggests that banana is good for ulcer healing, too.
Surgeries
Many times, peptic ulcers can be successfully treated with medication.
In some cases, however, ulcers can be severe and cause internal bleeding requiring surgery.
Probiotics
Probiotics,Lactobacillus acidophilusin particular, have been shown to help suppressH.
A 2016 review reported that probiotics can reduceH.
pyloriby up to 64% and fully eradicate the bacteria in almost a third of cases.
The only reported side effect was diarrhea.
Cranberry Extract
Supplementing with cranberry extract may also help to resolve peptic ulcers and eliminateH.
pyloriinfections, due to polyphenols found in the fruit.
However, studies are needed to confirm cranberry can help treat peptic ulcers disease.
Cranberry supplements contain salicylic acid and should not be used by people who are allergic to aspirin.
Cranberry may interfere with certain medications, including warfarin.
If you are taking any medications, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking cranberry.
If you think you may have an ulcer, speak to your healthcare provider.
The ulcer likely will not heal without treatment.
Yes, but with a modified approach.
Antacids are safe for short-term use in pregnancy, but products with sodium bicarbonate should be avoided.
Food and Drug Administration.FDA Requests Removal of All Ranitidine Products (Zantac) from the Market.
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2022 Mar;50(3):3000605221086457. doi:10.1177/03000605221086457.
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