Peptic ulcer occurs when inside your stomach and duodenum increased levels of acid are produced. This acid injures the line of stomach and duodenum and so ulcer appears.

The level of acid inside the stomach increases because some factors interfere in its production. For example, following a treatment with NSAIDs for a long time could increase the level of produced acid inside your stomach. To prevent ulcer from occurring your current doctor will prescribe some antacids, inhibitors of the proton pump (Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Pantoprazole), and H2-Receptor antagonists (Famotidine, Cimetidine, Nizatidine, and Ranitidine).

There is also a bacterium responsible for peptic ulcer: Helicobacter Pylori. For killing the bacterium, the doctor will prescribe antibiotic drugs. The most efficient antibiotic drugs are: Metronidazole, Tetracycline, Clarithromycin and Amoxicillin. This treatment must be followed for at least two weeks. Bismuth salicylate is also useful for killing the bacterium and is available over the counter. It also protects the stomach from the damage produced by the acid.

Also, a lifestyle change must be done. Smoking and drinking alcohol and coffee must be eliminated or at least reduced. Stress is also a factor that contributes to the extent of ulcer, so you should avoid getting stressed.

Try to avoid the following aliments because they only injure your stomach line: pepper, chilly, peppermint, citrus fruits, cocoa, chocolate, cola, and fried fatty foods. This list can be adjusted according to your tolerances but the doctors should be consulted about it too. Cranberries, apples, onions kill the H. Pylori; fruits and vegetable that are rich in fiber are also good for you. If you have an alcohol problem your doctor can advise you on receiving appropriate care.

Pay attention to the foods that cause you pain and burnings and try not to eat them any more.

For protecting the line of your stomach and duodenum, you will receive antacids like TUMS and ROLAIDS that will preserve the lining from the acid’s action.

Also if ulcer lesions are present, Sucralfate is helpful because it covers them up and helps them heal faster.

The most indicated drugs in ulcer are the proton pumps because they decrease gastric acid production. They are: esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole.

There are some rare cases when treatment is not effective and other measures must be applied. Surgery is a solution for treating peptic ulcers but only the doctor will be able to pronounce whether you need a surgery or not.