How to Manage Gastric Ulcer Symptoms Like Bloating and Heartburn – Strict Medication Adherence is Key
Gastric ulcers are a common chronic condition caused by various factors, often resulting in inflammation or necrotic lesions that penetrate the gastric mucosa. Known medically as peptic ulcers when including duodenal ulcers, these conditions require timely and appropriate treatment to prevent complications.
A 33-year-old female patient experienced bloating, heartburn, and acid reflux before being diagnosed with a gastric ulcer via endoscopy. She tested positive for Helicobacter pylori infection and was admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University in October 2021 for treatment. After a 3-day hospital stay and a month of outpatient follow-up, her symptoms improved significantly, and she made a full recovery.
Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
The patient, a 33-year-old woman, had experienced intermittent bloating, heartburn, acid reflux, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation for about a month. She had self-medicated with over-the-counter remedies without clear results. In the two days prior to admission, she began experiencing post-meal stomach pain that lasted a few minutes and resolved spontaneously. Upon examination, no serious physical abnormalities were found. An ECG was normal, and an endoscopy revealed a gastric ulcer with a positive H. pylori test, confirming the diagnosis.
Treatment Plan and Progress
Since H. pylori was detected, the primary goal was bacterial eradication using a bismuth-based quadruple therapy regimen. This included omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, clarithromycin capsules, amoxicillin capsules, and potassium citrate bismuth granules. To manage symptoms like acid secretion and mucosal irritation, ranitidine capsules, sucralfate chewable tablets, and hydrotalcite chewable tablets were also prescribed.
After three days of inpatient treatment, her symptoms showed noticeable improvement. A one-month follow-up confirmed successful eradication of H. pylori, and her gastrointestinal discomfort had largely subsided. Her appetite, sleep, and bowel movements had returned to normal, allowing for discharge from the hospital.
Post-Treatment Care and Recommendations
Even after symptom relief, it's crucial for patients to complete the full course of prescribed medication. Interrupting or altering the dosage can lead to incomplete eradication of H. pylori and potential recurrence. Dietary habits also play a significant role—patients should avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods such as chili peppers and fried chicken. Lifestyle adjustments, including stress management and avoiding alcohol, are equally important.
Clinical Insights on Long-Term Management
For H. pylori-related ulcers, acid suppression therapy typically lasts four weeks, while eradication therapy usually spans around a month. Patient compliance is critical during this period to ensure full recovery. For those with recurrent ulcers, long-term maintenance therapy using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 receptor antagonists may be necessary. These regimens can last anywhere from six months to two years depending on individual response and clinical evaluation.
In summary, strict adherence to prescribed medication, combined with lifestyle modifications, plays a central role in treating gastric ulcers effectively and preventing relapse.