Gastric ulcers can be a frustrating medical condition that can lead to severe abdominal pain. In some cases, the stomach ulceration can be bad enough that it begins to bleed, causing the condition to be termed a bleeding ulcer. Because most ulcers are caused by either bacteria or excessive stomach acid (and often both), treatments for bleeding ulcers hinge on reducing these factors while allowing the bleeding ulcer to heal.
Step 1
Stop using NSAIDs. NSAIDs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen.. These medications can irritate the stomach lining and cause bleeding ulcers.
Step 2
Eliminate the bacteria. Because most ulcers are caused by an infection of the bacteria H. pylori, one of the most effective ways to cure a bleeding ulcer is through the administration of antibiotics, such as amoxicillin and metronidazole.
Step 3
Protect the stomach lining. This can be done with such protective agents as bismuth, or via prescription medications such as sucralfate and misoprostol, which will help protect the tissue that line's your stomach.
Step 4
Reduce stomach acid. This can be done by eating fewer acidic foods (including tomatoes) or by taking certain prescription medications. These medications include over-the-counter acid blockers (such as Zantac or Pepcid) as well as proton pump inhibitors, such as Prilosec and Prevacid.
Step 5
Take antacids. Antacids will temporarily neutralize the acid in your stomach and ease some of the discomfort while your bleeding ulcer heals.
Things You'll Need
- Antibiotics
- Bismuth
- Sucralfate
- Misoprostol
- Antacids
- Acid blockers
- Proton pump inhibitors
