How is duodenal ulcer treated?

Duodenal ulcers can be comprehensively managed through multiple therapeutic approaches, including acid-suppressing medications, gastric mucosal protection, *Helicobacter pylori* eradication therapy, symptomatic management, and lifestyle interventions. Standardized interventions effectively promote ulcer healing and prevent recurrence. Patients experiencing new or recurrent symptoms—such as persistent abdominal pain or melena—should promptly seek hospital admission for timely adjustment of their treatment plan.

1. Acid-Suppressing Drug Therapy: Clinically, acid-suppressing agents are commonly used to reduce gastric acid secretion, thereby minimizing continuous acid irritation to the ulcerated site. This approach effectively alleviates symptoms such as epigastric pain and acid reflux and creates a favorable microenvironment for duodenal mucosal repair—making it the cornerstone of treatment.

2. Gastric Mucosal Protection Therapy: Mucosal protective agents form a protective film over ulcerated areas in the gastrointestinal tract, shielding them from mechanical irritation caused by gastric acid and food. This accelerates ulcer healing, reduces disease recurrence, and enhances overall therapeutic efficacy.

3. *Helicobacter pylori* Eradication Therapy: *H. pylori* infection is a primary etiological factor in duodenal ulcer development. Patients testing positive for *H. pylori* should receive standardized quadruple therapy. Complete eradication of this pathogen addresses the root cause of ulcer formation and significantly lowers the risk of recurrence.

4. Symptomatic Management: For accompanying symptoms such as abdominal distension and vomiting, prokinetic agents may be prescribed to improve gastrointestinal motility. This helps relieve digestive discomfort, correct functional gastrointestinal disorders, and enhance patients’ overall well-being.

5. Lifestyle Intervention: Patients must adhere long-term to disciplined dietary and sleep habits, abstaining from tobacco, alcohol, and spicy or otherwise irritating foods. Maintaining a stable gastrointestinal internal environment minimizes mucosal irritation, augments pharmacological treatment effects, and prevents ulcer relapse.

In daily life, adopt a pattern of eating small, frequent meals; avoid prolonged fasting; and steer clear of spicy, raw, cold, or greasy foods. Consistently support optimal intestinal function. Should symptoms persist or recur despite self-management, prompt medical consultation and standardized clinical evaluation are essential.