Symptoms And Treatment For Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the stomach, esophagus, and small intestine. There are 2 major types of peptic ulcers: gastric and duodenal. Gastric ulcers occur in the stomach lining, and duodenal ulcers occur in the small intestine. These ulcers are the result of either bacterial infections or the long-term use of anti-inflammatory medication. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain. Those affected also experience heartburn, excessive burping, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, bloating, as well as an intolerance to eating fatty foods.

Although peptic ulcers are quite uncomfortable, they can be treated! Peptic ulcer treatment starts with a selection of medications, including antibiotics. A range of supplements and natural remedies for peptic ulcers are also recommended. Get the full details on how to cure peptic ulcers now!

Course Of Antibiotics

Since these ulcers are the result of bacteria, specifically H. pylori, doctors prescribe those with them a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics are designed to treat bacterial illnesses, after all! Amoxicillin is a common antibiotic and is often recommended for peptic ulcers. There are other options, of course, and what a doctor chooses will vary based on individual cases. Everyone is different and will require treatment tailored to them! The average course of antibiotics for this condition lasts for 2 weeks. Those with these ulcers need to finish the entire course, even if they feel better before it’s done!

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors are another kind of medication doctors prescribe to treat peptic ulcers. This kind of medication blocks the production of acid. They also boost the healing of the ulcers themselves! They work by blocking the parts of the cells responsible for producing acid. This means they will not be active. Of course, taking this kind of medication for long periods puts those with peptic ulcers at a higher risk of dealing with fractures in their hip, wrist, or spine. This is especially so when they’re taking a high dose! Taking certain calcium supplements can help reduce this risk.

Probiotics

Those dealing with peptic ulcers must pay attention to their diet. Specifically, they should make sure they consume foods with probiotics regularly. Even more than they would otherwise! This is because probiotics help reduce the growth of H. pylori. As we know, this is the type of bacteria responsible for peptic ulcers. It is also important to note probiotics are often called ‘good’ bacteria, as many claim they boost the immune system.

Fermented foods, including sauerkraut, olives, pickles, and sourdough bread all contain probiotics. Other sources include kefir, yogurt, and cottage cheese, along with kimchi. There are also probiotic supplements for those who need them!

Relieve Stress

The exact extent of the connection between stress and peptic ulcers is still being studied, however, it is clear higher stress does put people at a higher risk of developing peptic ulcers. Additionally, increased stress can make the symptoms of these ulcers worse. With this in mind, those with peptic ulcers must make time to relieve any stress they are dealing with to help lessen their symptoms.

There are many ways to manage stress effectively. Many choose to practice deep breathing or meditation, two of the simplest options out there. Others try yoga, stretching, and even aromatherapy or listening to music! If the stress is severe, people also have the option of going to see a therapist or other mental health professional for assistance. Talking to a loved one also helps!

Get More Sleep

Sleep, many say, is the cornerstone of health. A lack of sleep puts the body at risk of many health conditions and can make existing ones worse. Additionally, less sleep means more stress! This applies to peptic ulcers, so those with them must make time to get more sleep. Ideally, everyone should get at least 8 hours of sleep each night.

Those who have issues falling asleep should develop a calming bedtime routine. This will help their mind prepare their body for sleep. Going to sleep at the same time every day is helpful! Avoiding caffeine at least 6 hours before bed is crucial for getting a good night’s sleep. Using dark curtains helps block the light from outside. Some even say taking melatonin helps them fall and stay asleep. Of course, those who want to take melatonin should discuss this with their doctor first.