How Often Should You Get an Endoscopy for Stomach Ulcers?

Q: How Often Should You Get an Endoscopy for Stomach Ulcers?

Hello： 1. <br>If symptoms recur, you can return for a follow-up appointment, where the physician will assess whether another endoscopy or medication is necessary. <br>An endoscopy can be performed again if symptoms are present. <br>2. <br>It is likely caused by coffee consumption

If there is a history of peptic ulcer disease, how often should an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy be scheduled?

Hello Doctor: Last year, I frequently experienced symptoms of acid reflux and nausea, which led to dizziness.
I went to a major hospital for an endoscopy, and the report indicated that I had severe gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Interestingly, I was also tested for Helicobacter pylori at that time, and the result was negative, meaning I do not have H.
pylori.
I was prescribed a four-month course of proton pump inhibitors, which improved my symptoms.
However, recently, due to irregular eating habits, I have started to experience occasional mild nausea again (though the symptoms are not as severe as last year).
I would like to ask: (1) If the symptoms recur, should I schedule another endoscopy, or would it be better to return for a follow-up appointment and have the doctor prescribe medication for improvement? Normally, how often should an endoscopy be scheduled for someone with a history of gastric ulcers for safety? (2) I am currently taking medication for hypertension and I enjoy drinking coffee daily for energy.
Could these two factors potentially worsen my gastric and duodenal ulcers? I would appreciate your valuable advice.
Thank you.

Mr. Wang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/27

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
If symptoms recur, you can return for a follow-up appointment, where the physician will assess whether another endoscopy or medication is necessary.
An endoscopy can be performed again if symptoms are present.
2.
It is likely caused by coffee consumption and is not significantly related to the hypertension medication.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/12/27

More Info

When it comes to managing stomach ulcers, particularly in the context of your previous experiences with gastric and duodenal ulcers, it is essential to have a clear understanding of when to seek further evaluation through endoscopy and how to manage your symptoms effectively.

1. Frequency of Endoscopy for Stomach Ulcers
The need for repeat endoscopy largely depends on the severity of your condition, the presence of symptoms, and the treatment response. Generally, if you have a history of gastric or duodenal ulcers, it is advisable to have follow-up endoscopies to monitor the healing process and to rule out any complications such as bleeding or malignancy.
For patients with a history of ulcers, a follow-up endoscopy is often recommended within 6 to 12 months after the initial diagnosis, especially if the ulcers were severe or if there were any complications. If you experience a recurrence of symptoms, such as nausea or abdominal pain, it would be prudent to consult your physician to determine whether another endoscopy is warranted. Your doctor may suggest starting with a clinical evaluation and possibly a trial of medication before deciding on further endoscopic evaluation.

2. Management of Symptoms and Medication
If your symptoms have returned but are less severe than before, it may be appropriate to first return to your physician for a medication review. They may prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers again to help manage your symptoms. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen and to monitor your symptoms closely. If your symptoms persist or worsen despite medication, then a repeat endoscopy may be necessary.

3. Lifestyle Factors Impacting Ulcers
Regarding your concerns about hypertension medication and daily coffee consumption, both can potentially influence gastric health. Some antihypertensive medications can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea or upset stomach, which may exacerbate your symptoms. Additionally, coffee is known to increase gastric acid secretion, which can aggravate ulcer symptoms in some individuals.
If you suspect that your medications or dietary habits are contributing to your symptoms, it would be wise to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may consider adjusting your medication or providing dietary recommendations to help alleviate your symptoms.

Conclusion
In summary, if you experience a recurrence of symptoms, it is advisable to consult your physician rather than immediately seeking another endoscopy. They can assess your condition and determine the best course of action, which may include medication adjustments or lifestyle changes. Regular follow-up is essential for anyone with a history of ulcers, and your healthcare provider can guide you on the appropriate timing for repeat endoscopies based on your individual circumstances. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure the best outcomes for your gastric health.

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