A bleeding ulcer can be dangerous, but most ulcers heal when you treat the cause. If you feel a burning pain in your upper belly, notice black stools, or have unexplained weight loss, don’t ignore it. Below are clear, practical steps you can follow now and what to expect from your doctor.
First, get tested for H. pylori. This bacteria causes many peptic ulcers and needs antibiotics to be cured. Your doctor will use a breath, stool, or blood test. If positive, expect a short course (usually 7–14 days) of two antibiotics plus a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).
PPIs (omeprazole, pantoprazole, esomeprazole) reduce acid and give the ulcer a chance to close. Most non-complicated ulcers need 4–8 weeks of PPI therapy. H2 blockers (like ranitidine replacements) and antacids can help with symptoms but don’t replace PPI or antibiotics when needed.
If NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac) caused the ulcer, stop them. Your doctor may switch you to acetaminophen for pain or suggest a safer pain plan. For people who must stay on NSAIDs, medicines like misoprostol or a continuous PPI may be recommended to protect the stomach lining.
Severe ulcers or those that bleed, perforate, or block the stomach need urgent care. Signs include sudden severe pain, vomiting blood, fainting, or very low blood pressure. In those cases, doctors may do endoscopy, give IV medicines, or perform surgery.
Stop smoking and cut back on alcohol—both slow healing and raise the risk of complications. Avoid NSAIDs when possible; if you must use a painkiller, ask your doctor about alternatives or stomach-protecting drugs. Eat regular, balanced meals and avoid long gaps between eating; large, greasy meals and late-night heavy dinners often worsen symptoms.
Some people find relief from milder symptoms by using antacids or alginate products after meals. Probiotics can help gut balance and may improve H. pylori treatment success when used alongside antibiotics. Always tell your doctor about every medicine and supplement you take to avoid interactions.
Follow-up matters. If your symptoms persist after treatment, or if you’re over 55 with new symptoms, your doctor may repeat testing or do an endoscopy to make sure the ulcer has healed and cancer is not the cause. Simple monitoring and finishing medicine courses are the easiest ways to prevent a return.
If you’re looking for trusted drug information, safe online pharmacy tips, or detailed guides on specific ulcer medicines, Medzino.com has easy-to-read articles and practical checklists to help you manage treatment safely.
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