Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care Tips

Duodenal ulcer

Hello Doctor,
I have a question I would like to ask you.
I often feel like something is stuck in my throat, and sometimes it feels like there is a lump in my larynx that disappears at times.
What could be the cause of this? Additionally, after eating, I often feel a sour sensation in my throat.
Sometimes when I am hungry, I experience stomach pain, and eating can also cause pain.
I also experience belching, chest tightness, dizziness, and back pain.
I have seen both an ENT specialist and a gastroenterologist, and I underwent an endoscopy.
The doctor found a 0.3 cm polyp in my stomach, which he removed, and he also mentioned that I have a duodenal ulcer.
I took the medication prescribed by the doctor but felt that I had indigestion, so I asked the doctor to change my medication, but I still experienced the same issue.
Therefore, I stopped taking the medication and felt more comfortable.

Doctor Liu, should I continue taking the medication? What should I do to maintain my health and promote recovery? Thank you for your guidance, Doctor Liu.

Xiao Ling, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/12/03

Dr. Liu Nanshan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Laryngeal foreign bodies may include the uvula.
During human eating, the soft palate and uvula elevate to block the nasopharyngeal passage, preventing food from entering the nasal cavity.
The symptoms you described persist despite ulcer treatment, suggesting non-ulcer dyspepsia.
Medication may improve symptoms for some individuals, but this improvement can be intermittent, and long-term medication is not always necessary.
It is advisable to focus on relaxation techniques, reduce the intake of gas-producing foods such as legumes, bread, apples, and bananas.

Reply Date: 2006/12/03

More Info

Duodenal ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are sores that develop on the lining of the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. They can cause a variety of symptoms and require careful management to promote healing and prevent complications. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing several gastrointestinal symptoms, including a sensation of something stuck in your throat, acid reflux, abdominal pain, and discomfort after eating. These symptoms can be associated with duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or other gastrointestinal conditions.

Symptoms of Duodenal Ulcers
Common symptoms of duodenal ulcers include:
- Abdominal Pain: This is often described as a burning sensation and may occur when the stomach is empty. Eating may temporarily relieve the pain.

- Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea, and in severe cases, vomiting may occur.

- Bloating and Belching: These symptoms can be exacerbated by certain foods or eating habits.

- Loss of Appetite: Due to pain or discomfort, individuals may avoid eating.

- Weight Loss: This can occur if the pain leads to reduced food intake.

Treatment Options
The treatment for duodenal ulcers typically involves:
1. Medications:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These reduce stomach acid production and promote healing. Examples include omeprazole and lansoprazole.

- H2-Receptor Antagonists: These also reduce acid production but are generally less effective than PPIs.

- Antacids: These can provide quick relief from symptoms but do not promote healing.

- Antibiotics: If the ulcer is caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to eradicate the bacteria.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:
- Diet: Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods can help reduce symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also be beneficial.

- Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms, so finding ways to manage stress through relaxation techniques or therapy can be helpful.

- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can interfere with the healing of ulcers and increase the risk of complications.

Care Tips
- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor the healing of the ulcer and adjust treatment as necessary.

- Recognizing Warning Signs: Be aware of symptoms that may indicate complications, such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or black stools, and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

- Medication Adherence: If your doctor has prescribed medication, it is generally advisable to continue taking it as directed, even if you feel better. Stopping medication prematurely can lead to a recurrence of symptoms or complications.

Your Situation
Given your experience with digestive discomfort and the recent diagnosis of a duodenal ulcer, it is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any side effects you experience from medications. If you find that certain medications cause significant discomfort or do not seem to help, discuss this with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your treatment plan or suggest alternative therapies.

In conclusion, managing duodenal ulcers involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and regular medical follow-up. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the most effective treatment for your specific situation. If you have concerns about your current treatment or symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out for further evaluation and guidance.

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