Since peptic ulcers are sometimes caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori , you should follow hygienic practice to decrease your risk of becoming infected. Be sure to:
- Wash hands well and regularly.
- Avoid contact with other people’s vomit or stool.
- Wear gloves if you must clean up after someone. Afterwards, wash your hands well.
- Drink only water known to be clean.
Smoking has been associated with the development of peptic ulcers because ulcers that do form are slower to heal. If you are a smoker, talk with your doctor about programs that can help you quit.
Overuse of alcohol, especially in combination with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, has sometimes been thought to increase the risk of peptic ulcers. Nonsteroidal drugs are definitely proven causes of ulcers, but the causal role of alcohol remains somewhat uncertain, especially in combination with smoking. However, alcohol misuse is a serious health problem regardless of its relationship to ulcer disease. If you can’t stop drinking on your own, contact your doctor for help and support.
If you need to use pain medicines, your doctor may recommend you use a medication other than an NSAID. Try not to take NSAIDs on a regular basis, Instead, only use them when necessary and as directed.
If you have a medical condition that requires you to take large doses of NSAIDs, ask your doctor about using medications like sodium sucralfate, omeprazole, or misoprostol to help protect your stomach against ulcers.
- Reviewer: Daus Mahnke, MD
- Review Date: 03/2014 -
- Update Date: 05/08/2014 -