Stomach ulcers are typically caused by an infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori or by long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Treatment of stomach ulcers usually involves
A combination of medication to reduce the acid level in the stomach,
Antibiotics to eradicate the H. pylori bacteria (if present), and
Lifestyle changes to promote healing.
The most common medications used to treat stomach ulcers are
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs),
which reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach, and
H2 blockers, which block the action of histamine on the cells that produce acid in the stomach.
Antibiotics such as
Clarithromycin,
Amoxicillin, and
Metronidazole
may also be prescribed to eradicate H. pylori bacteria.
In addition to medication, making lifestyle changes can also help in treating stomach ulcers. These include
avoiding alcohol and tobacco,
reducing stress, and
avoiding foods and drinks that can irritate the stomach, such as spicy or acidic foods.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for the proper diagnosis and treatment of stomach ulcers, as untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications such as bleeding, perforation, or obstruction of the stomach.