DIAGNOSIS
To determine if you have a duodenal ulcer, physicians may execute a series of tests. The tests are as follow:
Laboratory tests for H. pylori. Doctors will check for the presence of H. pylori through breath, stool, and blood tests. Among these tests, breath tests may give precise results. This test is performed by drinking or eating foods that have radioactive carbon. By taking this substance, the H. pylori collapses in the stomach.
Endoscopy. Your physicians will examine the digestive system and can determine the presence of the condition with the use of scope. While the process is going on, the physicians will insert a tube, and lenses are attached to it. The tube will be inserted in the esophagus of the patient going to the stomach and, lastly, in the small intestine. They will look for symptoms and signs of ulcers.
Upper gastrointestinal series. In this test, you will encounter various X-rays to check your upper digestive system. The x-rays will create images projecting the small intestine and stomach. Your doctor will then give you a white liquid with a substance called barium, which will cover your digestive tract.
TREATMENT
The most common treatment for duodenal ulcers include:
- Medications. Aside from antibiotics, you will take medications that help in healing, lining protection, and elevating acid production.
- Antacids. It is one of the treatments that normalizes stomach acid.
- Antibiotics. It gets rid of H. pylori.
The main purpose of this treatment is to get rid of H. pylori bacterium and reduce NSAIDs intake.
