Are Stomach Ulcers Serious?
Does your stomach hurt frequently? Does the pain ever wake you
up at night? Do you vomit undigested food or blood? If you can
answer "yes" to these questions or have experienced other
symptoms associated with stomach discomfort, you may have
stomach ulcers. These can be caused by many things, such as
taking anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofin or aspirin,
among others. Ulcers occasionally develop from eating highly
spicy food or excessive caffeine or alcohol intake.
The ulcerous condition, which is one or more slow-healing
sores, are often caused by H-pylon bacteria. Your doctor can
determine if this is the source of your problem by conducting
diagnostic tests that may include blood work and endoscopy,
which is a tubal exploration of your stomach lining and
esophagus. Sometimes stress can play a role in the development
or aggravation of ulcers. Check with your doctor about the most
likely factors in your lifestyle that may be having this
damaging effect, and find out what you can do to improve your
daily routine and alleviate discomfort from stomach ulcers.
Taking Pepto Bismol or another antacid product before or after
eating may reduce stomach acid and help prevent the formation of
ulcers. Eating several small meals each day instead of a few
large ones also may play a part in controlling the acid buildup
that can lead to problems. Balance meals based on spicy foods
with those that are easier on the stomach lining. Check with a
nutrition specialist or your doctor's office for recommendations
about the foods to avoid and those you can eat to help control
this condition.
The doctor may prescribe a triple-treatment of antibiotics to
destroy the bacteria responsible for your ulcers. The course of
treatment usually runs two to three weeks, and some patients
need to take medication for up to eight weeks. That should be
the extent of the medicine unless further problems develop.
You also can take steps to reduce stress from your life. Avoid
conflict with other people. Don't be too hard on yourself. Keep
a diary or personal journal for writing about negative thoughts
before they cause harm. Getting regular exercise for 30 to 60
minutes on most days is another great way to reduce the effects
of stress and help to stay healthy. Your doctor can suggest an
exercise plan that will fit with your lifestyle and overall
health.
Getting an ulcer is painful, it's inconvenient, and it may be
time-consuming to get it under control. Watch for warning signs
like rectal bleeding, which may look like black or tarry stools.
Chronic indigestion, difficulty in swallowing, and incessant
burping may be indicators, as well. Report any of these to your
medical practitioner, and he or she will advise whether testing
is needed to rule out other possible causes.