Stomach ulcers are not only painful – they can lead to some life-altering symptoms. Dr. Mordo Suchov and Dr. Alan Naim at Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA are committed to helping you find relief.
What Are Stomach Ulcers and What Causes Them?
Your stomach is made with a protective lining. This lining is responsible for creating the enzymes and acid necessary to break down the food you eat. And as acid is corrosive, the lining also protects your stomach from the acid it produces for digestion.
Unfortunately, your stomach lining can break down and develop sores. These are called stomach ulcers or gastric ulcers. They can lead to the following symptoms and more.
- Burning sensations in the stomach
- Stomach pain
- Heartburn, nausea, and gas
- Feeling bloated
- Feeling full – even when you haven’t eaten much
- Intolerance of certain foods, especially fatty ones
- Vomiting blood
- Dark, tarry stools
Stomach ulcers are often caused by an infection due to a build-up of a bacteria called H. pylori. Another cause is taking ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin regularly over an extended period. These medications can eat away at the stomach lining, quickly leading to ulcers.
Treatment for Stomach Ulcers in Encino, CA
A treatment plan for stomach ulcers must be built around the individual patient, as the cause can either be due to infection or anti-inflammatory medication. If an infection is involved, the first step is to use antibiotics to address it.
Other medications are utilized, regardless of the cause. Antacids are typically used to neutralize stomach acid while PPIs or proton pump inhibitors, like Nexium, are typically used to address acid production.
While all of these medications can help, an essential part of the treatment will be making certain changes to your daily habits. When you visit Dr. Suchov and Dr. Naim at Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California, they’ll help you determine what these changes should be. Often, they’ll include steps such as:
- Switching to a different type of pain reliever to prevent the use of NSAIDs as much as possible
- Eating foods to help, such as those with vitamins A and C as well as those with probiotics
- Taking steps to limit stress as it can aggravate your ulcer
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol intake
Together, you’ll develop a plan and monitor the results to ensure you are effectively addressing your ulcer.
Don’t just deal with the pain of stomach ulcers. Make an appointment with Dr. Suchov or Dr. Naim at Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA by calling (818) 905-1567 today.