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Stomach ulcers are often very painful. Learn about which home remedies and medications can help relieve ulcer pain
Ulcer pain is caused by irritation of the stomach and duodenal lining, sometimes due to Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) infection or long-term use of certain medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (ibuprofen or aspirin), or steroids. Ulcers can develop in the stomach and intestinal lining (usually the first part of the intestine, called duodenum), as well as other parts of the body.
Home remedies and over-the-counter medications can help relieve the pain and other symptoms associated with ulcers, but they may not work for everyone, especially in severe cases. If natural treatments don’t improve your symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help since your condition may be more serious.
6 home remedies for ulcer pain
- Probiotics: Probiotics don’t kill the bacteria causing ulcers, but they help treat ulcers by restoring the balance of good gut bacteria in the digestive tract. They can be found in yogurt and fermented foods as well as supplements. Probiotic supplements may be especially effective in relieving ulcer pain because they have a higher concentration of probiotic microorganisms.
- Fruits rich in flavonoids: Flavonoids have rich antioxidant properties that protect the stomach lining by increasing stomach mucus, which can inhibit the growth of H pylori, the bacteria commonly associated with stomach ulcers. Colorful fruits are rich in flavonoids and include cherries, apples, blueberries, plantains, etc.
- Honey: Honey has antibacterial properties and helps heal wounds and ulcers faster.
- Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can help prevent stomach ulcers or relieve ulcer symptoms.
- Chamomile: Chamomile tea can help treat intestinal spasms, reduce inflammation and pain, and promote healing.
- Garlic: Garlic helps fight infections and prevent the growth of H pylori. Garlic has been found to be helping in both the treatment and prevention of ulcers.
What treatments can relieve ulcer pain?
While over-the-counter medications can treat an upset stomach, they are generally not effective in treating ulcers. And taking over-the-counter painkillers could worsen the problem. That is why it’s better to see a doctor, who may combine several medications and therapies to relieve pain, cure the infection, and prevent it from worsening. Medications usually include:
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, and tinidazole may be prescribed for 2 weeks along with other medications to kill H pylori bacteria.
- Antacids: These neutralize stomach acid and provide quick pain relief but generally are not used to heal ulcers.
- Medications to block acid production and promote healing: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) block the production of stomach acid. PPIs are available by prescription and over the counter (lower dose). Common PPIs include omeprazole, rabeprazole, esomeprazole, and pantoprazole. Long-term use of PPIs, especially at high doses, can have risks, such as the increased risk of hip, wrist, and spine fracture.
- Medications to reduce acid production: These are acid blockers called histamine (H-2) blockers. H-2 blockers reduce stomach acid, relieving and promoting healing. They are available by prescription or over the counter. Common H-2 blockers are ranitidine, famotidine, cimetidine, etc.
- Medications to protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine: Prescription medications, such as sucralfate, coat the lining of the stomach and small intestine, protecting the lining, relieving pain, and allowing the ulcers to heal.
Your doctor may also recommend making lifestyle modifications, including:
- Avoiding spicy and oily food
- Avoiding alcohol
- Avoiding skipping meals
- Avoiding binge eating
- Avoiding taking painkillers (unless recommended by your doctor)
- Stress management
- Having fixed mealtimes and a good sleep routine