Peptic ulcer treatment in Florida
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Find a ProviderWhat are peptic ulcers?
A common GI condition, peptic ulcers are open sores or ulcerations located in the stomach (known as a gastric ulcer) or upper small intestine (called a duodenal ulcer) that often result in pain, discomfort, and bleeding. The type of cells that line the stomach is covered by a layer of mucus that helps protect the stomach against damage. When this protective structure within the stomach or small intestine becomes compromised, then the acid from the stomach damages the tissue that sits behind the protective structure.
Although anybody can experience peptic ulcers, some people may have a higher risk if they are age 50 or older or if they have a family history of peptic ulcers. Our digestive health physicians at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida offer specialized care for this type of medical concern. If you require treatment for peptic ulcers in Florida, please call our team right away to set up an appointment.
What are the causes of peptic ulcers?
As discussed above, a peptic ulcer occurs when the tissue in the stomach or small bowel is exposed to pepsin, which is commonly called stomach acid. This acid then erodes the tissue within the organ. There are two primary reasons, however, for why the erosion of the stomach lining occurs.
Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori, often known as H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that may enter a person's body in several ways, but if the bacteria finds its way in, it can attack the layer of mucus lining the stomach. This causes holes in that protective lining which can lead to ulcerations. If helicobacter pylori is present, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help destroy the destructive bacteria.
Pain relievers
Some pain relievers, for example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin, can prohibit your body from making a chemical substance that functions to help protect the internal linings of your stomach and small bowel.
Other types of pain medications, for example, Tylenol (acetaminophen), will not lead to the rise of ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. This is among the reasons why healthcare providers recommend using pain relievers in controlled and small dosages.
Risk factors for peptic ulcers
Other factors that elevate the risk of developing ulcers in the stomach or small intestine are:
- Consuming foods that are acidic or spicy
- Alcohol use
- Regular use of NSAIDs
- Tobacco use
- Stress
Our gastroenterologists in Florida can identify the signs of peptic ulcers and help determine factors that might be causing the GI condition. Request a consultation at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida for additional information.
What are the symptoms of peptic ulcers?
Given that peptic ulcers are open sores in the stomach or small intestine, individuals often feel discomfort and a burning sensation in the abdominal region when this condition has developed. Other commonly experienced symptoms of peptic ulcers can include:
- Unintentional weight loss
- Acid reflux and heartburn
- Fatty food intolerance
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Burping
- Feeling bloated
- Blood in the stool
- Appetite loss
If you experience blood in your stool or if you vomit, call your GI physician without delay. If you have any combination of the symptoms listed above or use nonprescription antacids that minimize your discomfort, but the pain comes back, set up an appointment with a GI provider at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida at your earliest convenience.
What are the treatments for peptic ulcers?
With proper care, peptic ulcers can be treated and can improve after some time. Treatments for peptic ulcers in Florida can include the following:
- Medications to reduce acid production (H-2 blockers)
- Cytoprotective agents (medication to protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine)
- Endoscopy to cauterize bleeding arteries
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid
- Antibiotics to kill helicobacter pylori
- Reduce the use of certain pain medications
- Surgery
For more information on the type of treatment that will work best for your GI needs, schedule a consultation with our GI providers at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida.
Get care for peptic ulcers
Our gastrointestinal physicians offer peptic ulcer treatment to Florida patients to help them enjoy their life without pain. Reach out to Gastroenterology Associates of Florida to discover your treatment options and how we go above and beyond to help you. Set up your appointment today.
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Dr. Ulteig was very informative and helped me out in one visit than all the doctors I've seen in years with no results. Dr. Ulteig took her time with our visit and really seem to care about helping me with my health issues. Thank you, Dr. Ulteig!
My doctor is great. Easy to have a conversation with and is able to answer all questions and includes me in any decisions going forward. The only issue is with the office staff. The scheduler, knowing that I had just finished with the doctor never acknowledged me while she was scheduling a colonoscopy with another patient. Because that takes awhile, she could have easily taken care of me in one minute. I could see that she was more interested in the Spanish speaking patient who looked like she was having a casual conversation with the scheduler. The long wait I had should never have happened.
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Friendly staff and great care. Someone who actually listens
Dr. Taryn Silverstein is amazing! She is knowledgeable, sensitive, informative and most important compassionate. I immediately felt at ease – and felt confident in my receiving expert medical care. She listens to every concern you have and really cares about your concerns and makes sure she addresses each. Staff at outpatient was great, too. Walked away, very impressed w. the overall experience. HIGHLY recommend
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