1. Get Tested to Rule Out Infection
In order to develop the best treatment plan for a definite diagnosis of peptic ulcer disease, it is necessary to be sure that the ulcers are not caused by a common infection. The most common such bacterial infection in humans, Helicobacter Pylori or H. Pylori, is thought to be present in the stomachs of over half of the world's population, and is a common cause of ulcers. If there is evidence that you may have peptic ulcer disease, get tested to be sure that it isn't due to H. Pylori; if it is, get the proper antibiotic treatment and you could see results in a matter of weeks. While many factors play into the formation of ulcers, having this organism and not getting the proper diagnosis can mean a long, fruitless treatment course.
2. Eat to Treat
Many different foods can cause extreme irritation to the stomach's mucosal lining and set you up for an ulcer, or worsen the one you already have. It may be necessary to consult a professional dietician to establish a proper regimen for eating and identify foods and drinks to limit or avoid altogether. Alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods are common triggers and should be avoided when dealing with peptic ulcers. If your symptoms are persistent or severe enough, seek medical attention, and do not treat peptic ulcer disease with over-the-counter herbal concoctions. These are not FDA approved so there is no legitimate information on how they will act in your body, or react with any other medications you are taking.
3. Reduce Your Stress
Stress is a recipe for disaster in people with ulcers. Stress causes an elevation in blood pressure, heart rate and the production of adrenalin, and causes the stomach to increase production of hydrochloric acid, which serves to inflict more and more damage on the stomach lining and ulcers in particular. By the time stomach muscles begin to churn from being hypermotile, the roller coaster of symptoms is off and running. Stress can be present at home or in the workplace: Stress with coworkers or bosses should be identified and alleviated, but don't forget that worries over money, family and the future create physical symptoms too. If you have trouble dealing with stressors, recognized or not, get help to develop coping mechanisms that will lower stress levels, or seek guidance on how to avoid situations that can be stressful and deal with concern.
