MANAGEMENT OF ULCERS
PROBLEM
An ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine because of stomach acid.
CAUSE
The cause of ulcers is not fully understood. A bacteria called Helicobacter pylori and certain drugs have been identified as possible causes.
PREVENTION
Modify your lifestyle to include health practices that prevent recurrences of ulcer pain and bleeding.
TREATMENT PLAN
A.If aspirin or ibuprofen is suspected as the cause of the ulcer, you will have to stop taking it. If you need the medicine for other health problems, your healthcare provider will help with a new dose or therapy.
B.Avoid caffeine, colas, alcohol, and chocolate because they may increase acid production.
C.Stop smoking: It decreases the ulcer’s healing rate and increases its recurrence. It is never too late to stop smoking.
D.Be sure to tell healthcare providers about your history of an ulcer and stomach pain if you need new prescriptions or are sent to the hospital.
E.Make a list of all of your medications and over-the-counter and herbal products so that you and your healthcare provider can review your list for possible causes or ulcer irritants.
Activity: Exercise daily. Plan rest periods, avoid fatigue, and learn to cope with or avoid stressful situations.
Diet:
A.Eat a well-balanced diet with high fiber content.
B.Eat meals at regular intervals. Frequent small feedings are unnecessary. Avoid bedtime snacks.
C.Eliminate foods that cause pain or distress; otherwise, your diet is usually not restricted. Examples of foods that cause worse pain are the following:
1.Peppermint.
2.Spicy food.
3.Alcohol.
D.Avoid extremely hot or cold food or fluids, chew thoroughly, and eat slowly and while relaxed for better digestion.
Medications:
A.Some of the medicines that help the pain and acid can be purchased at the drugstore without a prescription. H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce stomach acid.
B.Antibiotics fight H. pylori infection.
C.Other medications may be prescribed to coat the ulcer area. Antacids can be taken during the ulcer treatment but should not be used 1 hour before or 2 hours after the ulcer treatments because antacids can interfere with absorption.
D.Take the entire prescription: Do not stop when you feel better.
E.If you have been prescribed metronidazole (Flagyl) or clarithromycin, you may notice a metallic taste in your mouth.
F.Alcohol (including wine) should be avoided when taking Flagyl. The interaction can cause skin flushing, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
G.If you are prescribed bismuth, you may notice black bowel movements (BMs).
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.Worsening symptoms while taking your medication.
B.Vomiting that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds.
C.Tar-colored or grape jelly
BMs. If this occurs, bring a stool sample to the office.
D.Diarrhea and/or severe pain despite treatment.
E.Unusual weakness or paleness.
F.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE