Understanding and Preventing Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms & Relief

Stomach ulcers form in areas exposed to a stomach acid and the digestive enzyme, pepsin. A person with an ulcer may describe the pain as gnawing or burning and can often pinpoint the exact spot. The pain usually occurs 2 to 3 hours after eating, is worse when the stomach is empty, and can be relieved by eating a small amount of food or taking an antacid. Some people never have ulcer pain; however, they may develop intestinal bleeding, heartburn, bloating and gas as well as nausea and vomiting. These are the steps you can undertake to prevent stomach ulcers

Instructions

• 1

  Stop smoking. Smoking is one factor closely linked to poor healing and ulcer recurrence. Cigarette smokers often continue to suffer from ulcers until they quit. Avoid trigger foods such as coffee, chocolate, alcohol, peppermint, tomatoes, tomato based products, fatty foods, spicy foods and food seasoning such as black pepper, garlic and chili powder. Citrus fruits may cause discomfort for some people

• 2

  Stop taking harmful medications. People with ulcers caused by NSAID use must discontinue the offending drug. People who need ongoing pain relief for a condition such as arthritis should ask their doctor to prescribe alternative medication

• 3

  Exercise so as to raise your endorphin levels. People with ulcers may benefit from relaxation techniques and biofeedback to cope with stress. Regular exercise promotes release of endorphins, brain chemicals that dull pain and elevate mood.