Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers are open sores that may develop in the inner lining of the stomach, the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum) or the esophagus. These are commonly known as peptic or gastric ulcers.Â
When the stomach acids come into contact with the stomach lining due to a reduction of the mucous layer that protects the stomach lining from the digestive juice, an ulcer may occur. This type of erosion typically occurs due to prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs or due to a bacterium infection.
How would you know if you have a stomach ulcer?Â
The most commonly experienced symptom of a stomach ulcer is abdominal pain or a burning sensation. This feeling of discomfort similar to one caused by severe indigestion would be more prominent between meals or when the stomach is empty. Pain caused by the presence of an ulcer is rarely constant and is often recurring in nature. This type of pain can last for a few minutes or go on for hours before experiencing relief.
Symptoms would also differ based on the severity and position of the ulcer. If a person is experiencing bloody stools or bloody vomiting, excessive heartburn, or continuous burping or acid reflux, this could be indicative of internal bleeding, which would require medical attention.Â
What are the tests you can expect your doctor to prescribe to accurately diagnose the ulcer?
Diagnosis of a stomach ulcer may require one or several of the following tests:
- Physical exam: The doctor will examine the abdomen by hand to check for pain or tenderness. He will also use a stethoscope to listen to sounds in your stomach.
- Laboratory tests: The doctor may use lab tests to check for the Helicobacter pylori, also known as the H. pylori, infection. Your doctor may request you to provide samples for the following tests:
- Barium test: Before X-raying the abdomen, you will need to drink a solution of barium. Barium coats your organs, so that the radiologist can clearly see the shape of your organs.
- Endoscopy: This is a procedure in which the doctor inserts a very small camera down the throat to get a clear view of esophageal, stomach and duodenum lining.Â
- Biopsy: While performing the endoscopy, the doctor may take a small sample of your stomach lining tissue for further testing. 6. Computerized tomography (CT): A CT scan provides 360-degree imaging of your internal organs. This helps doctors to identify the problem more accurately. With the help of a solution that you would be asked to drink and a dye, which would be injected, the CT scan could accurately show the doctor the affected area or hole created in the lining by the ulcer.
We recommend that you ask your doctor about all dietary restrictions before and after conducting these tests.
Stomach ulcer treatmentÂ
Based on the test results, the doctor would further decide and discuss the best course of treatment. In most cases, ulcers can be easily treated by a physician. If you have not contracted the H. pylori infection, your physician may simply adjust your prescribed medications to control the amount of stomach acid and help your ulcer heal.Â
If you have contracted the H. pylori infection, your doctor might suggest a suitable course of antibiotics, along with other medicines to help cure your ulcer.Â
Once you have completed the medicinal courses as prescribed by the physician, he may rerun the tests to ensure eradication of H. pylori infection, as this is a contagious infection that can easily spread through consumption of contaminated food or water, or by coming into direct contact with an infected individual's bodily fluids or saliva.
How much does stomach ulcer treatment cost?
The consultation and treatment costs for stomach ulcers might vary depending on your location, insurance provider and other factors.
Where can I find a stomach ulcer doctor near me?
At Zocdoc.com! Â You can book an appointment with top-rated doctors who treat stomach ulcers in your location. Booking is simple, secure and free!
Sources:
MedlinePlus
Mayo Clinic
