Gastric ulcers, though common, require careful management to avoid serious health issues. With a range of treatment options available—from medications to surgical procedures—early intervention is key to effective healing.
Gastric ulcers, also called stomach ulcers, are sores that form on the stomach lining. They develop when the protective mucus layer in the stomach becomes thin, allowing digestive acids to damage the stomach’s tissue, leading to ulcers. Although common and treatable, gastric ulcers can lead to severe complications, if left untreated. If you’re dealing with gastric ulcers, it’s essential to consult an expert, such as Dr Kamal Chetri, the best gastroenterologist in Guwahati, to begin prompt treatment. Read on to learn more about the treatment of gastric ulcers.
What Causes Gastric Ulcers?
The primary causes of gastric ulcers are H. pylori bacterial infection and the excessive use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- H. pylori Infection: This widespread bacterial infection affects millions of people globally and primarily resides in the stomach. While it often remains harmless, in some cases, it multiplies excessively, leading to chronic inflammation and eventually gastric ulcers as it erodes the stomach lining.
- NSAIDs: Commonly used pain relievers like naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin, NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining and disrupt the chemicals that protect and repair it. Though the stomach lining can usually heal from minor irritation, frequent or excessive NSAID use can overwhelm its ability to recover, resulting in ulcers as the protective layer diminishes.
- Other causes: Though less common, stomach ulcers can also result from other factors:
- Infections: Occasionally, other viral, bacterial, or fungal infections can cause erosive gastritis in the stomach.
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: A rare condition where the stomach produces too much acid, leading to ulceration.
- Severe Physiological Stress: Life-threatening injury or illness can lead to stress ulcers due to changes in the body’s pH balance, increasing stomach acidity.
Treatment of Gastric Ulcers
Treatment for gastric ulcers varies based on their underlying cause. Most ulcers heal within a few months with appropriate care. Typically, treatment involves a combination of medications to reduce stomach acid, eradicate any underlying infections, and protect and coat the ulcer during healing. In some cases, procedures may be necessary to repair any perforations or stop bleeding. Here’s what gastric ulcer treatment usually involve:
- Medications
Medications for treating gastric ulcers may include:
- Antibiotics
In cases where you have an H. pylori infection, treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include amoxicillin, tetracycline, clarithromycin, and metronidazole. Side effects are generally mild and may include diarrhoea, nausea, and a metallic taste. After completing the antibiotic course, you’ll be tested at least 4 weeks later to ensure the infection is cleared. If H. pylori persists, alternative antibiotics may be prescribed.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce stomach acid production and protect the stomach lining, aiding the natural healing of ulcers. They are typically prescribed for 4 to 8 weeks. Common PPIs include pantoprazole, esomeprazole, omeprazole, rabeprazole, dexlansoprazole, and lansoprazole. Side effects are generally mild and may include diarrhoea, constipation, headaches, nausea, dizziness, stomach pain, and rashes.
- Histamine Receptor Blockers (H2 Blockers)
Like PPIs, these reduce stomach acid by blocking the chemical signals that stimulate acid production. Common H2-receptor antagonists include cimetidine, famotidine, and nizatidine. Side effects are rare but may include dizziness, diarrhoea, rashes, headaches, and fatigue.
- Cytoprotective Agents
These medications help coat and protect the stomach lining, often prescribed to treat and prevent ulcers caused by NSAID use. Common options include misoprostol, sucralfate, and bismuth subsalicylate.
- Medical Procedures
If you have a complex ulcer, your healthcare provider might need to address it directly, often during an endoscopy. They can manage bleeding by cauterising the area or injecting medication. For ulcers with perforations, a colorectal surgeon might need to stitch the hole. In rare cases, some individuals experience persistent stomach ulcers, which do not respond to treatment or keep recurring, leading to scarring and chronic pain. This scarring could potentially block the outlet at the bottom of the stomach, necessitating surgery. The surgical options include:
- Cutting the nerve responsible for stomach acid production (vagotomy)
- Removing scar tissue or widening the outlet (pyloroplasty)
Conclusion
Gastric ulcers require timely and effective treatment to prevent severe complications. From medication to medical procedures, various approaches can address these painful sores and promote healing. If you suspect you have a gastric ulcer, consulting a specialist is crucial for appropriate management and recovery. Dr Kamal Chetri, the best gastroenterologist in Guwahati, is renowned for his expertise in diagnosing and treating gastric ulcers. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with him via Apollo today to seek his guidance to start your treatment.
