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Your Guide To Peptic Ulcers

By , About.com Guide

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Treating Peptic Ulcers

Lifestyle changes

In the area of diet, doctors in the past had advised people with ulcers to avoid spicy, fatty and acidic foods. However, it has been shown that a bland diet is ineffective for treating or avoiding ulcers. This doesn't mean a bland diet is bad for ulcer sufferers. In fact, it may make them feel better. Some people find certain foods cause irritation and should discuss this problem with their doctor. Smoking is a different issue. It has been shown to delay ulcer healing and has been linked to ulcer recurrence. Therefore, persons with ulcers should not smoke.

Medications

Doctors treat stomach and duodenal ulcers with several types of medications, including H2-blockers, acid pump inhibitors, and mucosal protective agents. When treating H. pylori, these medications are used in combination with antibiotics.

Antibiotics

The discovery of the link between ulcers and H. pylori has resulted in a new treatment option. Now, in addition to treatment aimed at decreasing the production of stomach acid, doctors may prescribe antibiotics for patients with H. pylori. By eliminating H. pylori means the ulcer may now heal and most likely will not come back.

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For more information on treatment options for peptic ulcers, please read this article on peptic ulcer treatment

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