Stomach Ulcers: Fast, Practical Answers You Can Use
Most stomach ulcers come from a common bug called H. pylori or from regular NSAID use — not from stress alone. That fact matters because the cause changes the treatment. If you know the likely cause, you can get the right test and fix it faster.
Worried you might have an ulcer? Look for burning or gnawing pain between the breastbone and belly button, often worse on an empty stomach, plus bloating, belching, or a feeling of fullness. If you see dark/black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, fainting, or sudden severe belly pain, get urgent medical help.
How doctors check for ulcers
Your doctor usually starts with questions and a physical exam. To confirm H. pylori, they may order a breath test, stool antigen test, or blood test. If symptoms are severe, or if there are red flags like weight loss or bleeding, an endoscopy (a camera down the throat) lets the doctor see the ulcer and take biopsies if needed.
Treatments that work
Treatment depends on the cause. If H. pylori is present, standard therapy combines a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as omeprazole with two antibiotics (commonly amoxicillin and clarithromycin, or metronidazole if you’re allergic to penicillin). Finish the full antibiotic course exactly as prescribed — stopping early raises the chance the bug comes back.
If NSAIDs caused the ulcer, stopping or switching the painkiller is key. Your doctor might recommend a PPI (omeprazole, esomeprazole, or similar) to heal the lining. For ongoing pain needs, acetaminophen is usually safer for the stomach, but ask your provider first.
PPIs reduce stomach acid and help ulcers heal. Take them as directed — many work best taken before breakfast. Avoid doubling doses on your own. Long-term use has risks, so discuss the shortest effective duration with your doctor.
Simple daily changes help too: quit smoking, limit alcohol, and avoid spicy or acidic foods only if they trigger symptoms for you. Eating smaller, regular meals can reduce pain in some people. Probiotics may ease antibiotic side effects but don’t replace standard H. pylori therapy.
Follow-up matters. After treatment for H. pylori, your doctor may retest to make sure the infection is gone. If symptoms persist despite therapy, further tests or a specialist referral may be needed.
Want to learn more about medications used for ulcers? Look for articles on omeprazole, how antibiotics are used for H. pylori, and safe alternatives to NSAIDs. If anything feels urgent — black stools, severe pain, fainting, or vomiting blood — go to the ER. Otherwise, schedule a primary care visit and get the right tests to fix the problem efficiently.