Everyone experience stomach aches from time to time; however, if you have an ulcer, you could be dealing with severe pain that calls for urgent treatment, ranging from taking antibiotics to seeing a surgeon. People with ulcers often experience frequent indigestion or dyspepsia, and their symptoms are often mistaken for heartburn. If you think there’s a chance you could have an ulcer, use the following guide to learn some essential facts. 

What Are Ulcers?

Ulcers are essentially sores in the lining of the small intestine or stomach that occur when the stomach acids that help break down food reach through the mucus that keeps them separate. Stomach ulcers are referred to as gastric, while small intestine ulcers are called duodenal. They often develop from an infection called Helicobacter pylori (HP), though some ulcers form in reaction to medications, such as NSAID pain relievers.

If you’re dealing with an ulcer, you may experience symptoms for several weeks, followed by a few months of inactivity. About 10% of people in Western countries experience ulcers during their lifetime. The pain is best described as a burning or gnawing sensation in the stomach, but some ulcers don’t result in pain at all. You may also experience weight loss, bloating, nausea, and burping.

How Are They Treated?

If you are experiencing dyspepsia, your doctor or specialist will check for the H. pylori infection, as well as an inflamed lining in the stomach or small intestine. If possible, they may perform an upper endoscopy, directing a camera through the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

If an ulcer is found, they will most likely try to get rid of any bacteria by prescribing antibiotics. Your doctor may also suggest dietary changes to avoid inflammation, such as the elimination of alcohol and caffeine. In severe cases, you may need to undergo surgery.

If you’re dealing with indigestion, visit the skilled doctors and surgeons at Lincoln Surgery Center. These board-certified surgeons are proud to have been treating patients since the 1930s, specializing in colorectal and vascular health. Whether you need diagnostic tests or an invasive procedure, call today at (402) 483-7825 to restore your health as soon as possible. You can also visit the website to learn more about these trusted surgeons in Lincoln, NE.