How to manage a duodenal ulcer
Disease description:
Recently, I have been experiencing abdominal pain before meals, and sometimes I also feel nauseous. After visiting the hospital for examination, the doctor diagnosed it as being caused by a duodenal ulcer. What should I do for a duodenal ulcer?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
The treatment of duodenal ulcers requires a comprehensive approach, mainly including:
1. Drug therapy: Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole are the first-line treatment. A full course of treatment lasting 4–6 weeks is recommended. Concurrent use of mucosal protective agents such as hydrotalcite may also be employed to protect the gastric mucosa.
2. Eradication of Helicobacter pylori: Most patients with duodenal ulcers have H. pylori infection and require eradication therapy to prevent ulcer recurrence.
3. Endoscopic therapy: For ulcers complicated by bleeding, endoscopic hemostatic measures can be used.
4. Surgical treatment: Surgery should be considered when serious complications such as obstruction or perforation occur.
Lifestyle modifications, including avoiding excessive fatigue and stress and maintaining regular eating habits, also aid in ulcer healing. Treatment of duodenal ulcers should be individualized, with therapeutic strategies selected according to each patient's specific condition.
