Stomach pain is a common problem, and often it will resolve without treatment. If you experience chronic stomach pain, you could have a stomach ulcer. Our gastroenterologist can help. Dr. Mordo Suchov and Dr. Alan Joseph Naim at Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA, provide a wide range of gastrointestinal services, including diagnosis and treatment of stomach ulcers.
What You Need to Know About Stomach Ulcers
These are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers about stomach ulcers:
What causes a stomach ulcer?
The most common cause of a stomach ulcer is an infection caused by the Heliobacter pylori or H. pylori bacteria. Other causes include chronic use of some medications including aspirin, ibuprofen, and steroids.
What are the signs and symptoms of a stomach ulcer?
There are several signs and symptoms of a stomach ulcer, including:
- Burning stomach pain
- Frequent bloating or belching
- Difficulty eating fatty foods
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dark, tarry stools
How is a stomach ulcer diagnosed?
Your gastroenterologist can diagnose a stomach ulcer with an upper endoscopy procedure, which uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached to one end. The tube is inserted in your mouth and guided down your esophagus and into your stomach. The camera allows your gastroenterologist to view your stomach and look for abnormalities. Your doctor may recommend additional lab testing to test for H. pylori and imaging studies to rule out other gastrointestinal conditions.
How is a stomach ulcer treated?
Antibiotics are prescribed to kill the H. pylori bacteria. Other medications may also be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and help heal your stomach lining.
What can I do to feel better?
When you have a stomach ulcer, you need to watch what you eat. You should:
- Eat a bland diet of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT)
- Eat smaller portions of food, more slowly
- Take over-the-counter antacids
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Avoid taking aspirin or NSAID medications
Want to Know More?
To find out more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of stomach ulcers, call Dr. Mordo Suchov and Dr. Alan Joseph Naim at Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA. You can reach them in the office by calling (818) 905-1567, so call today.