Peptic Ulcers

You may be experiencing burning stomach pain, heartburn or nausea caused by peptic ulcers. We can help diagnose the cause of your problem and help you find relief.  

What are peptic ulcers?

A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach, esophagus or small intestine. These sores occur when stomach acid damages the lining of the digestive tract either due to the bacteria H. Pylori or anti-inflammatory pain relievers including aspirin.

Peptic ulcers can cause:

• Stomach pain, burning
• A bloated feeling
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Intolerance for fatty foods

Some people with peptic ulcers have no symptoms. If your symptoms become severe or intolerable and cannot be relieved with antacids or acid blockers, we can help. If left untreated, peptic ulcers can cause internal bleeding or infection.

Make an appointment with our team at Guthrie gastroenterology for diagnosis and treatment.

How are peptic ulcers diagnosed?

To determine if your symptoms are caused by a peptic ulcer, you made need testing done. Our team at Guthrie Gastroenterology can test for H. pylori using a blood, stool or breath test. We can also perform an endoscopy to look for ulcers using a lens on the end of a narrow tube, called an endoscope, which is threaded down the throat. We are able to take a small tissue sample to test for H. pylori in the stomach lining.

An upper gastrointestinal series, or barium swallow, can also be used to identify ulcers.

How are peptic ulcers treated?

Peptic ulcers can be healed by killing the H. Pytori bacteria using medications, eliminating or reducing NSAIDS, reducing stomach acid or using medications that line the stomach.
We can help you find the right treatment so you can heal.