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Stomach Ulcer Treatment: Medical Care, Diet and Long-Term Healing

A stomach ulcer, also known as a gastric ulcer, is a painful condition caused by damage to the protective lining of the stomaomach ulcers are highly treatable.

What Is a Stomach Ulcer?ch. While ulcers were once considered mainly stress-related, modern medical research shows that most cases are linked to infection or medication use. Understanding proper stomach ulcer treatment is essential to ensure healing and prevent serious complications.

With timely diagnosis and evidence-based care, st

A stomach ulcer is an open sore that develops on the inner lining of the stomach due to excess acid damaging the protective mucus layer.

It belongs to a group called peptic ulcer disease, which also includes duodenal ulcers.

Common Causes of Stomach Ulcers

Helicobacter pylori Infection

The most common cause worldwide.

H. pylori bacteria:

• weaken the stomach lining

• increase acid damage

• cause chronic inflammation

ICMR data shows high prevalence of H. pylori infection in India.

Long-Term Use of Painkillers

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as:

• ibuprofen

• aspirin

• diclofenac

reduce protective stomach mucus and increase ulcer risk.

Excess Stomach Acid

Conditions or habits that increase acid include:

• smoking

• alcohol consumption

• severe stress

• certain medical conditions

Symptoms of a Stomach Ulcer

Common symptoms include:

• burning or gnawing stomach pain

• pain worsened on an empty stomach

• bloating or fullness

• nausea

• reduced appetite

Warning signs requiring urgent care:

• vomiting blood

• black stools

• sudden severe pain

• unexplained weight loss

How Stomach Ulcers Are Diagnosed

Diagnosis may include:

• upper endoscopy

• H. pylori breath or stool tests

• blood tests

• imaging when required

Early diagnosis improves outcomes significantly.

Medical Treatment for Stomach Ulcers

Acid-Suppressing Medications

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers:

• reduce stomach acid

• allow the ulcer to heal

• relieve pain

These are the cornerstone of treatment.

Antibiotic Therapy

If H. pylori is detected, combination antibiotic therapy is required to eradicate the infection.

Incomplete treatment increases recurrence risk.

Protective Medications

Some medicines coat the stomach lining and protect ulcers from acid exposure.

Importance of Completing Treatment

Stopping medicines early may:

• delay healing

• increase complications

• cause ulcer recurrence

Follow-up testing is often advised to confirm healing.

Dietary Support During Ulcer Treatment

Diet does not replace medical treatment but supports healing.

Recommended dietary practices:

• eat small, frequent meals

• choose bland, non-irritating foods

• include fruits, vegetables and fibre

• avoid spicy, fried and acidic foods

WHO dietary guidance supports balanced nutrition during gastrointestinal illness.

Foods to Avoid During Ulcer Treatment

Avoid:

• alcohol

• caffeine

• spicy foods

• carbonated drinks

• smoking

These delay healing and worsen symptoms.

Role of Stress Management

Stress does not directly cause ulcers but:

• worsens symptoms

• delays healing

• increases acid secretion

Stress reduction supports recovery.

Lifestyle Changes That Prevent Recurrence

Key preventive steps include:

• quitting smoking

• limiting painkiller use

• avoiding alcohol

• maintaining regular meals

• managing stress

These reduce recurrence significantly.

Complications of Untreated Ulcers

If left untreated, ulcers may lead to:

• bleeding

• perforation

• gastric outlet obstruction

• life-threatening emergencies

Early treatment prevents these outcomes.

When Surgery Is Required

Surgery is rare today and only needed when:

• bleeding does not stop

• perforation occurs

• ulcers do not heal despite treatment

Modern medicine has reduced surgical need significantly.

Stomach Ulcer Treatment and Recovery Timeline

Most ulcers heal within:

• 4–8 weeks with proper treatment

Symptoms improve earlier, but healing must be confirmed medically.

Importance of Preventive Health Screening

Preventive evaluations help detect:

• early ulcer formation

• H. pylori infection

• medication-related risks

NITI Aayog highlights early gastrointestinal screening in high-risk populations.

When to Seek Medical Help

Consult a doctor immediately if experiencing:

• severe or persistent stomach pain

• vomiting blood

• black stools

• unexplained weight loss

Early intervention saves lives.

Conclusion

Stomach ulcer treatment is highly effective when based on proper diagnosis, medical therapy and supportive lifestyle changes. Most ulcers heal completely with acid suppression and eradication of underlying infection. Ignoring symptoms or delaying care can lead to serious complications, while early treatment restores comfort and protects long-term digestive health. With evidence-based medical care and consistent follow-up, stomach ulcers can be successfully treated and prevented from recurring.

7?? References

• Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Peptic Ulcer and H. pylori Studies
• World Health Organization (WHO) – Digestive Diseases and Treatment Guidelines
• National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Gastrointestinal Health Data
• Lancet – Peptic Ulcer Disease Management Research
• NITI Aayog – Preventive Digestive Health Reports