Gastric ulcer – diagnosis and treatment

Gastric ulcer is a condition that occurs when the lining of the stomach is damaged, which can lead to the formation of lesions or sores. This can be caused by various factors, including infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), smoking, stress and other factors.

The diagnosis of gastric ulcer usually involves:

Detailed medical history and physical exam: Your doctor will discuss with you the symptoms you have and perform a physical exam to detect physical signs of gastric ulcer.
Laboratory tests: These may include tests to detect Helicobacter pylori infection or blood tests to check hemoglobin levels, which may be low in a bleeding ulcer.
Upper endoscopy (gastroscopy): This is the procedure in which a thin, flexible tube equipped with a video camera at the end is inserted into the mouth and lowered into the stomach to examine the inside of the stomach and take tissue samples for biopsy, if necessary.
Other imaging tests: Sometimes the doctor may recommend a series of imaging tests, such as barium X-rays or ultrasound, to investigate the stomach and small bowel area.

Treatment for gastric ulcer may involve a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. These may include:

Antacid medications to reduce stomach acidity and relieve discomfort.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid production.
Antibiotics to treat Helicobacter pylori infection, if present.
Medications to protect the stomach lining and promote healing of ulcers, such as sucralfate.
Avoiding factors that can aggravate ulcers, such as NSAIDs, smoking and alcohol.

It’s also important to follow a healthy diet, reduce stress and avoid foods and drinks that can irritate the stomach.

It is essential to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of gastric ulcers, as untreated, they can lead to serious complications such as internal bleeding, stomach perforation or the development of gastric cancer.