Peptic ulcers are sores present on the mucosa of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum. The most common cause of these sores is bacterium called Helicobacter pylori. Still some other factors such as stressful life, spicy food or smoking may contribute to the disease. Even prolonged usage of certain medications (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can lead to the condition.
Treatment options are numerous. However the best cure is prevention. People who use medications which can lead to peptic ulcers should look for alternative drug in reducing the pain or inflammation. Or there is possibility of extension of usage of these drugs but in that case a patient is prescribed additional medications which are due to protect stomach surface. The most commonly prescribed are H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors.
In case of already formed ulcers patients can undergo classical medical or surgical treatment or alternative treatments such as homeopathy, acupuncture and therapy with herbs.
The first step towards the eradication of the disease is a change in lifestyle. One should stop smoking and consuming alcohol drinks. Coffee is forbidden as well. Meals are not supposed to be spicy and never eaten hot. Reduction in daily stress levels is beneficial as well.
Medications that are administered includes H2 blockers, blockers of proton pump or antacids. H2 blockers decreases the production of stomach acid. The blockers of proton pump acts as a similar to H2 blockers but are more efficient. Antacids have a role of covering the surface of the stomach hence preventing further damage of the gastric acid. In case of positive results on Helicobacter pylori the patient is prescribed antibiotics.
In case of hemorrhage the endoscopy is conducted and the affected area is treated with injectable medications which leads to stop the bleeding. The surgical procedures are left as a backup in case of ulcer perforation or severe cases of bleeding.
Herbs have been used for a long time and have been proven to be beneficial in treating peptic ulcers. They can be taken in different forms (teas, capsules, powders or tinctures). Magical herbs for peptic ulcers are cranberry, Pistacia lentiscus, Glycyrrhiza glabra and Mentha piperita.
Homeopathy is another alternative option in treating peptic ulcers. There is variety of homeopathic remedies that are helpful with abdominal bloating followed by belching, pain in the stomach, nausea, heartburn, problems with digestion and many others which are rather common for peptic ulcers.
Even acupuncture can be effective in dealing with symptoms of the disease.
One may not believe but chiropractors have managed to treat people with uncomplicated stomach and duodenum ulcers by using spinal manipulation . It may look weird but the symptoms vanished within 10 days after the beginning in treatment.
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