Stomach ulcers are commonly known as gastric ulcers. They are painful sores in the lining of your stomach. When the thick mucus layer that protects the stomach gets reduced, digestive acids eat the tissues away that line your stomach. Some of the causes and treatments, as told by the best gastroenterologist in Newtown, are as follows.
Causes and treatments of stomach ulcers explained by the best gastroenterologist in Newtown
● Causes of ulcers
Most stomach ulcers occur when a bacterial infection happens. It is mainly caused by H. pylori or Helicobacter pylori. Long-term usage of inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen, can result in ulcers. Spicy foods and stress do not cause ulcers. However, they can worsen the condition of ulcers over time.
● Treatment of ulcers
A gastroenterologist in Newtown says that over-the-counter acid blockers and counter antacids will help in easing some of the pain. But the relief you get will not be permanent. Ulcer treatment mainly focuses on reducing the acid in your stomach and strengthening its protective lining that comes into contact with the stomach acids. If a bacterial infection causes stomach ulcers, then your doctor will also treat that problem. Some medications that doctors suggest for mild to moderate stomach ulcers are as follows.
- Triple therapy
For triple therapy, your doctor will be combining antibiotics such as clarithromycin and amoxicillin. If these medicines do not suit you, you can opt for quadruple therapy with two different antibiotics, such as tetracycline and metronidazole, along with a proton pump inhibitor that works effectively.
- Antibiotics
If you have a bacterial infection caused by H.pylori, antibiotics can help in curing your ulcer. Doctors can also combine triple or quadruple therapy along with antibiotics and heartburn medicines.
- H2 blockers
H2 blockers are also known as histamine receptor blockers. They block natural chemicals like histamine that directs the stomach to make acid. H2 blockers include Pepcid, Axid, and Tagamet.
- Proton pump inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, are acid reducers. The medications include omeprazole and esomeprazole.
- Antacids
Antacids work for a short amount of time. They can also keep the antibiotics from working. For this reason, consult your doctor before having antacids.
- Bismuth
This medication takes care of your ulcer and guards it against stomach acid. It can also kill infections of H. Pylori. Doctors do not prescribe this medication with antibiotics.
If your stomach ulcer keeps coming back, then your doctor may suggest surgery. In addition, for bleeding ulcers also, doctors can perform surgery.
We have explained the causes and treatments of stomach ulcers as said by a gastroenterologist. You can consult your doctor to know which treatment will be most suitable for you.