Ulcer Treatments You Can Start Using Right Now

If you’ve got a stomach ulcer, the pain can feel nonstop. The good news is you don’t need to suffer in silence. A mix of proven meds and everyday habits can cut the discomfort and get the tissue healing fast.

Medications That Work Fast

Doctors usually start with a proton‑pump inhibitor (PPI) like omeprazole or lansoprazole. These drugs lower stomach acid, giving the ulcer a break and letting it repair. Most people feel relief within a few days, and a typical course lasts 4‑8 weeks.

If PPIs aren’t a fit, H2‑blockers such as ranitidine or famotidine are a solid backup. They don’t drop acid as drastically, but they still trim the irritation enough for many ulcers to heal.

For ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, a combo of two antibiotics plus a PPI is the standard. Finish the full antibiotic course even if symptoms ease; missing doses can let the bacteria bounce back.

Never self‑prescribe strong painkillers like ibuprofen or naproxen while you have an ulcer. These NSAIDs can worsen the sore. If you need a pain reliever, acetaminophen is generally safer.

Lifestyle Tweaks That Boost Healing

What you eat matters a lot. Skip spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and anything that makes your stomach burn. Instead, choose bland staples: oatmeal, bananas, boiled potatoes, and low‑fat yogurt.

Eating smaller meals more often can keep acid levels steady. Aim for five to six mini‑meals a day and avoid lying down for at least an hour after you eat.

Quit smoking. Nicotine not only raises acid production but also reduces blood flow to the stomach lining, slowing repair. Even a few cigarettes a day can keep an ulcer from healing.

Stress isn’t the root cause, but it can flare up symptoms. Simple relaxation tricks—deep breathing, short walks, or a quick meditation—help keep your gut calm.

Stay hydrated with water or herbal teas like chamomile. These liquids dilute stomach acid and keep the digestive tract moving.

Finally, track your progress. Keep a short note of what you eat, any pain spikes, and when you take medication. This log helps you and your doctor fine‑tune treatment.

Ulcer healing isn’t instant, but with the right meds and a few everyday adjustments, most people feel better within weeks. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best medication plan for you, and start adding these simple habits today. Your stomach will thank you.