Actively bleeding stomach or peptic ulcers are considered an urgent and potentially life-threatening emergency with the first priority to halt bleeding. Measures to stabilize active bleeding include endoscopy to locate the source, medications, transfusions, stomach lavage to remove blood and emergency surgery. If bleeding is slow or chronic, measures can include antibiotics and drugs such as acid inhibitors, acid blockers, antacids and medications that protect the lining of the digestive tract.
Antibiotics
An organism identified as Helicobacter pylori bacterium is frequently found to be the underlying reason for ulcers that can be treated with antibiotics. Your care plan can include more than one antibiotic such as tetracycline, amoxicillin, clarithromycin and metronidazole, combined with an acid reducer or neutralizer. This treatment can be effective with ulcers that have previously been resistant to therapy.
Medications
When H. pylori bacterium is not the primary problem, chronic use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are the secondary cause. NSAIDs, including ibuprofen and aspirin, can cause raw, open areas or erosions and ulcers in the lining of the stomach of chronic users. Medications that block acid production such as omeprazole or acid secretion such as ranitidine are effective treatments as well as discontinuing the use of NSAIDs.
Additional Medications
The use of antacids such as aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide can aid in decreasing symptoms and help with healing. Medications such as sucralfate and bismuth subsalicylate coat the lining of the stomach, relieve discomfort and aid the healing process. Remember to consult with your physician before starting to use antacids, as these medications are readily absorbed and can aggravate other conditions.
Dietary Tips
Avoiding foods that aggravate symptoms is recommended by The American College of Gastroenterology, but your diet has minute effects on ulcer healing. Eating foods easily digested and at regular times, without increasing the frequency of meals, is beneficial. Limiting dairy products that increase acid production and spicy seasonings while avoiding alcohol and caffeine can reduce symptoms. Excluding fiber foods such as grains, fruits and vegetables with peels to maintain the digestive tract.
Endoscopic Treatment
Endoscopy, frequently used for diagnostic purposes with ulcer symptoms, locates and aids treatment of gastric ulcer sites, as well as allowing the biopsy of tissues. Endoscopy utilizes a flexible fiberoptic scope that is passed orally into the gastrointestinal tract, enabling the physician to inspect the stomach lining. Areas that are bleeding can be treated with chemicals, heat probes, electric current or laser, and actively bleeding vessels can be clipped or banded.
