Treatment of peptic ulcers depends on the severity and the cause of your condition, and may include avoiding the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), discontinuing smoking and alcohol consumption, taking prescribed antibiotics to kill the bacteria, and using acid control medications to neutralise acid levels in the stomach.
Prescription medications
If your peptic ulcer is caused by NSAIDs, your doctor may advise you to stop or reduce your consumption of the NSAID or switch to a different medicine. You may also be prescribed the following medicines to reduce stomach acid and help your ulcers heal:
- PPIs to reduce stomach acid and protect the stomach and duodenum lining
- Histamine receptor blockers to stop the production of histamine
- Mucosal protective agents to coat ulcers and protect them against acid and enzymes, thus facilitating the healing process
- Antacids to quickly weaken or neutralise stomach acid for symptom relief
Lifestyle changes
- Avoiding foods that make your symptoms worse
- Quitting smoking to facilitate healing of the ulcers and preventing recurrence
- Limiting alcohol and caffeine
- Losing weight if you are overweight
Surgery
In rare cases, surgery may be required for the following reasons:
- Tear or block in the stomach or duodenum
- Uncontrolled or recurrent bleeding
- Symptoms that do not respond to drug therapy
Speak to a gastroenterologist to learn more about treatment options best suited for you.
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