A stomach ulcer is known by several different names, including peptic ulcer, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer. According to the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, an open sore found in the lining of the stomach or first portion of the intestine is classified as a stomach ulcer. The website reports a burning sensation as the most common symptom of a stomach ulcer. The sensation may be on and off for several weeks, disappear after consuming food or become more irritating when the stomach is empty. The most common cause of stomach ulcers is bacterial infection and some medications, reports MayoClinic.com.
Medications
A variety of medications treat stomach ulcers. Many patients take two or more types of medications to eliminate bacteria and decrease production of stomach acid to promote healing. Two different types of antibiotics are generally prescribed for two weeks to kill the bacteria. Additional medications include acid blockers to reduce the production of stomach acid and antacids to neutralize it so the ulcer may heal. Proton pump inhibitors may be prescribed to decrease stomach acid production; however, these drugs may increase a patient's risk of a hip fracture, advises MayoClinic.com. The clinic recommends patients take a calcium supplement while consuming these medications. Cytoprotective agents further protect the stomach and intestinal lining. A common cytoprotective agent is bismuth subsalicylate, commonly sold as Pepto-Bismol.
Lifestyle Changes
According to MayoClinic.com, treatment for ulcers not responding to medication require removal of factors that prevent healing. The regular use of tobacco and alcohol should be decreased, as these substances may prevent the ulcer from properly healing. Smoking interferes with the stomach's protective lining, and alcohol erodes the mucosal lining in the stomach and intestines. Patients who regularly take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should decrease the amount of medication taken. These medications include ibuprofen and naproxen. Instead, patients should opt for acetaminophen. MayoClinic.com reports these medications may unknowingly be the cause of the stomach ulcers. Stronger doses of medications may be required and should be discussed with a medical professional.
Complications
When a peptic ulcer remains untreated or undetected, a variety of complications may occur. The ulcer may bleed, causing anemia or severe blood loss. A blood transfusion or hospitalization may be necessary, reports MayoClinic.com. The ulcer may continue to expand and grow through the stomach wall, causing a severe infection of the abdominal cavity. Scar tissue may form where the ulcer was, causing a feeling of fullness, nausea and vomiting.
