How long does it take for a duodenal ulcer to heal?

The recovery time for duodenal ulcers primarily depends on the severity of the condition. If a duodenal ulcer causes serious complications such as perforation or bleeding of the gastric mucosa, surgical intervention is required to stop the bleeding. Most patients can recover within about one week of hospitalization after surgery, although complete wound healing may take approximately one month. If the duodenal ulcer is caused by Helicobacter pylori and the ulcer is shallow and small in area, quadruple therapy can be used for treatment. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include amoxicillin and clarithromycin, which are typically taken for two weeks before discontinuation. Acid-suppressing medications and bismuth-containing agents usually need to be taken for four to six weeks for the ulcer to gradually heal. Patients should avoid spicy and irritating foods that affect the gastric mucosa and should consume easily digestible meals.