Causes and Treatment of Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers occur when the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine becomes damaged. This can cause significant discomfort, but fortunately there are effective methods for both prevention and treatment. In this article, we take a closer look at the most common causes of stomach ulcers and how they can be treated.
Causes of stomach ulcers
Peptic ulcers can be caused by several different factors. Here are the most common causes:
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection: This bacterium is one of the main causes of stomach ulcers. It can irritate the lining of the stomach and lead to ulcers.
- Long-term use of painkillers: Medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin and other NSAIDs can damage the stomach lining and increase the risk of stomach ulcers.
- Stress: Although stress does not directly cause stomach ulcers, it can worsen symptoms and delay the healing process.
- Smoking: Smoking weakens the stomach lining and increases the risk of ulcer formation.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can irritate and damage the lining of the stomach, increasing the risk of ulcer formation.
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Treatment of stomach ulcers depends on the cause. Here are some of the most common treatment methods:
- Antibiotic treatment: If the ulcer is caused by an H. pylori infection, the doctor will typically prescribe a combination of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria.
- Acid-suppressing medication: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers are used to reduce the production of stomach acid, giving the lining time to heal.
- Avoiding NSAIDs: If the ulcer is caused by painkillers, the doctor will recommend avoiding these or finding alternative medications.
- Dietary changes: It may help to avoid heavily spiced foods, caffeine and alcohol, as these can further irritate the stomach.
- Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can help speed up the healing process and prevent recurrent stomach ulcers.
Prevention of stomach ulcers
To reduce the risk of developing stomach ulcers, it may be a good idea to take certain precautions:
- Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid spreading H. pylori bacteria.
- Avoid long-term use of painkillers without your doctor’s recommendation.
- Reduce stress using relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
- Maintain a healthy diet and avoid large amounts of alcohol.
You can read more about the symptoms of stomach ulcers here
FAQ on causes and treatment of stomach ulcers
- What is the most common cause of stomach ulcers?
- The most common cause of peptic ulcers is infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.
- Can stomach ulcers be cured?
- Yes, stomach ulcers can be cured with the right treatment, which typically involves antibiotics and acid‑suppressing medication.
- How can I prevent stomach ulcers?
- You can prevent stomach ulcers by avoiding long-term use of NSAIDs, reducing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Are there home tests to detect stomach ulcers?
- Yes, there are tests that can detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria.