Gastric Ulcer
Gastric Ulcer
A gastric ulcer is a sore that is found in the lining of the gastrointestinal or GI tract. A germ called Helicobacter pylori often causes gastric ulcers. These germs can let stomach acid through the protective lining of your GI tract. The acid is so strong that it causes a hole in the lining of the GI tract. There are also other causes of peptic ulcers. These include use of aspirin, ibuprofen, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or lots of acid as seen in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Gastric ulcers may be treated and managed by drugs and lifestyle changes. The doctor may suggest surgery in cases of bad gastric ulcers.
Name
Gastric Ulcer Discharge Instructions
About this topic
A gastric ulcer is a sore that is found in the lining of the gastrointestinal or GI tract. A germ called Helicobacter pylori often causes gastric ulcers. These germs can let stomach acid through the protective lining of your GI tract. The acid is so strong that it causes a hole in the lining of the GI tract. There are also other causes of peptic ulcers. These include use of aspirin, ibuprofen, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or lots of acid as seen in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Gastric ulcers may be treated and managed by drugs and lifestyle changes. The doctor may suggest surgery in cases of bad gastric ulcers.
What drugs may be needed?
Help with pain,Fight an infection if the ulcer was caused by H. pylori,Lower acid in the stomach,Protect the lining of the stomach
What problems could happen?
Internal bleeding,Tear or swelling of the tissue lining of the stomach,Stomach cancer
When do I need to call the doctor?
Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills.,Very bad pain in the belly, burning pain in the belly that goes away after eating or drinking,Throwing up blood,Bloody stool,Trouble breathing, slow or shallow breathing,Very bad dizziness or become cold and clammy,You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
Body systems
Emergency Medicine,Gastrointestinal
What are other common names?
Peptic Disease,Peptic Ulcer Disease,Peptic Ulcer of the Stomach,Peptic Ulcers,Stomach Ulcers,Ulcer,Ulcers of the Stomach
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.
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