How To Manage Acute Gastric Ulcers

Identifying the cause of an acute gastric ulcer is crucial for effective treatment. It's important to determine what triggered the ulcer, such as stress, medication use, or infection, and take steps to eliminate or manage these factors. Making immediate lifestyle and dietary adjustments can also help reduce symptoms and support healing.

One of the first steps in managing an acute gastric ulcer is modifying your diet. Eating light foods that are easy to digest can significantly ease discomfort. Consider incorporating more soups, boiled vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals. Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods that can irritate the stomach lining. Also, steer clear of very hot or cold foods and beverages, and practice mindful eating by chewing slowly and avoiding overeating.

In addition to dietary changes, medical treatment is often necessary. Commonly prescribed medications include antacids, acid suppressors, and gastric mucosal protectants. Antacids neutralize stomach acid, while acid suppressors reduce acid production—both play unique roles in healing ulcers. If a patient tests positive for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), antibiotic therapy will be required to eliminate the infection. This is a key step, as untreated H. pylori can lead to recurring ulcers.

Getting tested for H. pylori is essential for anyone diagnosed with a gastric ulcer. A simple breath, blood, or stool test can detect the presence of this bacteria, and if found, a course of antibiotics combined with acid-reducing medications will likely be prescribed. Early diagnosis and treatment not only speed up recovery but also reduce the risk of complications like bleeding or perforation.