Management, Identification, and Medications for Peptic Ulcers
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Can Laso MD address peptic ulcer disease?
Absolutely. In certain instances, a Laso MD doctor can assess and diagnose peptic ulcers by evaluating your symptoms. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may recommend an in-person visit to a clinic for a thorough physical examination and additional tests. These tests may involve procedures such as endoscopy, testing for H. pylori, and an upper gastrointestinal series, also known as a barium swallow.
Can I receive a prescription on Laso MD?
Certainly. Our medical professionals at Laso MD can provide online prescriptions for peptic ulcer medications during your consultation. Upon accepting the prescription, you can choose to pick it up from any pharmacy or opt for free doorstep delivery.
What are peptic ulcers?
Peptic ulcers are lesions that develop on the inner lining of both the stomach and the upper small intestine.
There are two types of peptic ulcers:
- Gastric ulcers (located inside the stomach)
- Duodenal ulcers (found in the upper small intestine)
What is peptic ulcer disease?
Peptic ulcer disease is a condition that leads to the formation of peptic ulcers.
Under normal circumstances, a protective layer of mucus shields the stomach and intestinal linings from the corrosive effects of digestive juices. However, an imbalance between hydrochloric acid and pepsin, an enzyme aiding digestion, triggers this condition.
What are the symptoms of peptic ulcer disease?
Common symptoms of peptic ulcer disease include:
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Burning stomach pain
- Intolerance to fatty, spicy, or greasy foods
- Bloating
- Excessive burping
- Feeling full when not having eaten
What causes peptic ulcer disease?
The causes of peptic ulcer disease are multifactorial and include:
- Helicobacter pylori bacteria
- Chronic use of certain medications like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium
- Use of other medications such as NSAIDs, SSRIs, Fosamax, or Actonel
Certain habits, like excessive drinking, smoking, regularly consuming very spicy foods, and untreated chronic stress, can also contribute to the risk factors.
How is peptic ulcer disease treated?
Treatment for peptic ulcer disease often involves medications to address the root cause of the ulcer or to protect the stomach and intestinal linings. Medication options include:
- Acid blockers to reduce stomach acid production
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to promote healing while blocking acid production
- Antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori bacteria
- Medications to protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine
- Antacids for reducing stomach acid levels and pain relief
How can peptic ulcer disease be prevented?
Preventing peptic ulcer disease involves practicing good hygiene to minimize infection risk, ensuring proper food preparation, and exercising caution with common pain relievers. Adjusting pain reliever doses and taking them with meals can also lower the risk.
What is the difference between peptic ulcer and gastric ulcer?
While gastric ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer, they are specifically located on the inner lining of the stomach. Peptic ulcers, on the other hand, can occur in both the stomach and the upper small intestine (duodenal ulcers).
What is the difference between peptic ulcer disease and gastritis?
While both conditions affect the stomach, gastritis causes irritation and inflammation, potentially leading to shallow sores (erosions) on the stomach lining. Peptic ulcers are more severe, forming deeper sores that take longer to heal and can occur in both the stomach and upper small intestine.
Is peptic ulcer curable?
Yes, in most cases, proper treatment can cure peptic ulcers. However, persistent symptoms may indicate refractory ulcers, requiring further investigation for underlying conditions.
Can peptic ulcers heal on their own?
Although possible, healing without treatment is slower, and the ulcer may return if caused or aggravated by habits like excessive drinking or smoking.
What is Laso MD?
Laso MD is a platform that provides comprehensive healthcare solutions, offering accessible and efficient access to medical professionals for consultations and treatments. It prioritizes user convenience, facilitating timely interactions with healthcare professionals through live chat or video consultations.
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