How Are Ulcers Diagnosed?

Most doctors recommend that a test be performed to evaluate for the presence of an ulcer if symptoms are not improved after 2 weeks of treatment with an acid blocking medicine (citnetidine, ranitidine, famotidine, omeprazole or lansaprazole etc.).

The two tests most commonly used to evaluate for ulcer are an X-ray known as an Upper GI Series (UGI), and a procedure called an Endoscopy (EGD). An UGI series is an X-ray test where you are given a chalky material to drink while X-rays are taken to outline the anatomy of the digestive tract. An EGD is a test that involves insertion of a small lighted flexible tube through the mouth into the esophagus and stomach to examine for abnormalities. The test is usually performed using medicines to sedate you. During the test biopsies of tissue can be taken for examination. A biopsy will not cause any pain or discomfort and is usually only the size of a match head.

Tests for Helicobacter Pylori

There are several tests available to your doctor to evaluate for the presence of the bacteria, H. pylori. Samples of blood can be examined for evidence of antibodies to the bacteria; a breath test can be examined for by-products from the bacteria; or biopsies from the stomach can be examined.

How Are Ulcers Treated?

In the past, doctors advised patients to avoid spicy, fatty and acidic foods. We now know that diet has little to do with ulcer healing. Doctors now recommend that patients with ulcers only avoid foods that worsen their symptoms. Ulcer patients who smoke cigarettes should stop. Smoking has been shown to inhibit ulcer healing and is linked to ulcer recurrence. In general, ulcer patients should not take NSAIDS like aspirin or ibuprofen.