Understanding Duodenal Ulcer Treatment: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery
If you’ve ever had that burning feeling in the pit of your stomach, you’re not alone. You may have a duodenal ulcer – a type of peptic ulcer that develops in the first part of the small intestine beyond the stomach. These ulcers can be painful, and if they go untreated, they can result in more serious problems such as bleeding or perforation.
In most cases, you’ll be able to successfully manage your duodenal ulcer once it’s diagnosed and treated. In this blog post we will investigate the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for people in the UK who want expert help or guidance on treating duodenal ulcers.
What is a Duodenal Ulcer?
Duodenal ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer that develops in the duodenum — the upper part of the small intestine. It results from a breakdown in the protective lining that protects the stomach from the acid and digestive enzymes it produces.
The reason of duodenal ulcers There are two main reasons for duodenal ulcers:
- H. pylori infection: This prevalent bacterial infection degrades the mucous layer, making the lining susceptible to acid injury.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Drugs including ibuprofen and aspirin can irritate or inflame the lining of the gut when taken regularly.
Additional factors that can contribute include a surplus of stomach acid, smoking, alcohol, stress and certain medical conditions (such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which is rare).
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Dyspeptic symptoms Of duodenal ulcers from mild discomfort To strong pain. Common symptoms include:
- An aching or burning pain in your upper belly, which may be relieved when you eat or drink, or take antacids.
- Abdominal bloating, belching or nausea.
- The appetite is wanting and there is much emaciation.
- In rare cases: vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools, which may indicate internal bleeding — a medical emergency.
Symptoms can be on-again, off-again, but that doesn’t mean the ulcer is gone. Get a proper diagnosis by consulting the doctor and start your personalised line of treatment.
Diagnosis and Investigation
Your doctor will likely start with a review of your symptoms and a discussion of your medical history if a duodenal ulcer is suspected. You may need the following to confirm the diagnosis:
- A test to detect H. pylori infection, such as a urea breath test, stool test or blood test.
- Gastroscopy (endoscopy): A procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end to look directly at the inside of the stomach and the duodenum. This permits doctors to view the ulcer and collect tissue samples as needed.
Early and correct diagnosis is the cornerstone in avoiding complications and course of the therapy.
Treatment Options for Duodenal Ulcers
The type of treatment will vary depending on what is causing the ulcer. This is how it’s usually done:
- If you have H. pylori: You will be treated with a combination of antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to kill the bacteria and decrease acid production. This is called triple therapy and is typically taken for seven to 14 days.
- If NSAIDs are the culprit: Stopping or cutting back on taking NSAIDs is key. Healing time and frequency of recurrence is improved if a PPI is prescribed.
- PPIs or H2-receptor antagonists: These drugs reduce the production of stomach acid, allowing the ulcer to heal. Popular PPIs include omeprazole, and lansoprazole.
- Antacids and cytoprotective agents: These can help to relieve symptoms and coat the ulcer.
In most cases, duodenal ulcers respond very well to treatment and usually heal within 4 to 8 weeks. Further tests are not usually necessary to prove that the ulcer is healed, especially if you are still experiencing symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes and Prevention
Sometimes medication isn’t enough by itself. Continue these habits to help to heal and avoid a repeat infestation:
- Steer clear of smoking and alcohol as they irritate the lining of the gut.
- Limit use or avoid NSAIDs altogether — ask your GP for alternatives.
- Eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy or acidic foods if they cause distress.
- Handle stress with the help of relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, exercise or speaking to a counsellor.
By continuing these dietary changes, you will greatly decrease your risk of developing another ulcer and help your overall digestive health.
Conclusion
Duodenal ulcers are one of the most frequent and manageable digestive problems. Most people make a full recovery and find long-term relief when diagnosed and prescribed appropriate medication in a timely manner and with agreed-on lifestyle changes and support. If you have any symptoms or would like advice on treatment, it’s important to see a health professional for tailored treatment.
To discuss this treatment/investigation, please book an appointment with our specialists.
Brought to you by Chase Lodge Hospital.
