Over The Counter For Ulcers

Top 3 Medications To Treat Mouth Ulcers

Did you know that up to 1 in 5 people in the world get recurrent mouth ulcers ? Usually appearing in the form of a blister or erupted skin, mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, can be found on the lips, tongue, the roof of the mouth or inside the cheeks.

What Causes Mouth Ulcers?

If you are a victim of having reoccurring mouth ulcers, you may be wondering what the causes are so you can manage it. It’s may not always be clear why mouth ulcers appear but a few triggers to be aware of are:

• Damage from biting the inside of your cheek
• Poorly fitted dentures
• Eating certain foods, such as, coffee, spicy food, or cheese
• Smoking

These common wounds are not only uncomfortable to deal with but painful! Although many ulcers vanish over a period of 10 days to two weeks, there are various over-the-counter medications available to treat them and lessen the irritation and were bringing you some of the best ones out there. Take a look:

1. Orajel Antiseptic Mouth Sores Rinse

This mouth wash is available to purchase over the counter at your local pharmacy. It works for all types of mouth sores and promotes the healing of canker sores, cheek bites, gum irritation and denture irritation. It comes in a refreshing mint flavor that also kills bacteria in your mouth. Discomfort and pain will subside after a few days of using this mouth wash as instructed on the bottle.

2. Dentek Canker Cover Canker Sore Patches

3. Releev Cold Sore Treatment

What Are The Complications Of Peptic Ulcers

Ulcers can cause serious problems if you dont get treatment.

The most common problems include:

• Bleeding. As an ulcer wears away the muscles of the stomach or duodenal wall, blood vessels may be hurt. This causes bleeding.
• Hole . Sometimes an ulcer makes a hole in the wall of your stomach or duodenum. When this happens, bacteria and partly digested food can get in. This causes infection and redness or swelling .
• Narrowing and blockage . Ulcers that are found where the duodenum joins the stomach can cause swelling and scarring. This can narrow or even block the opening to the duodenum. Food cant leave your stomach and go into your small intestine. This causes vomiting. You cant eat properly.

What Treatments Can Relieve Ulcer Pain

While over-the-counter medications can treat an upset stomach, they are generally not effective in treating ulcers. And taking over-the-counter painkillers could worsen the problem. That is why its better to see a doctor, who may combine several medications and therapies to relieve pain, cure the infection, and prevent it from worsening. Medications usually include:

Your doctor may also recommend making lifestyle modifications, including:

• Avoiding spicy and oily food

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What Is The Cause Of Peptic Ulcers

When you eat, your stomach produces hydrochloric acid and an enzyme called pepsin to digest the food.

• The food is partially digested in the stomach and then moves on to the duodenum to continue the process.
• Peptic ulcers occur when the acid and enzyme overcome the defense mechanisms of the gastrointestinal tract and erode the mucosal wall.

In the past it was thought that ulcers were caused by lifestyle factors such as eating habits, cigarettesmoking, and stress.

• Now it is understood that people with ulcers have an imbalance between acid and pepsin coupled with the digestive tract’s inability to protect itself from these harsh substances.
• Research done in the 1980s showed that some ulcers are caused by infection with a bacterium named Helicobacter pylori, usually called H pylori.
• Not everyone who gets an ulcer is infected with H pylori. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause ulcers if taken regularly.

Some types of medical therapy can contribute to ulcer formation. The following factors can weaken the protective mucosal barrier of the stomach increasing the chances of getting an ulcer and slow the healing of existing ulcers.

• Aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , and newer anti-inflammatory medications
• Alcohol
• Cigarettesmoking
• Radiation therapy:-used for diseases such as cancer

People who take aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications are at an increased risk even if they do not have H pylori infection.

How Do You Treat Stomach Ulcers

The goal of treatment is to heal the stomach lining. Some small ulcers will go away on their own, although they can come back.

Our gastroenterologists will first determine the cause of the ulcer. If its H. pylori, the usual course of treatment is antibiotics.

If the ulcer is caused by excessive use of aspirin and ibuprofen, the doctor will recommend the patient stop taking them, and find a new pain reliever.

The primary treatment of stomach ulcers is the proton pump inhibitor medications.

These medications reduce acid production so that the stomach lining can heal. Our gastroenterologists will prescribe the appropriate medication for the optimal duration, to ensure that ulcers heal completely.

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Otc Medication For Stomach Ulcers

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Stages Of Pressure Injuries

Developing a bedsore doesnt happen overnight. These develop over several days/weeks of being bedridden or staying in similar positions the majority of the day/night. It is important to know the stages of bedsores and what they look like so you can catch them early and begin treating them immediately. The more severe bedsore, the more difficult and painful it is to treat.

Stage 1 Bedsores

The affected area will be reddened and painful to the touch. A classic symptom of a stage 1 bedsore is the skin will not turn white when pressed. The skin may be warm or cool at this point.

Stage 2 Bedsores

During stage 2, the skin will begin to blister or become an open sore. It may look similar to a bad sunburn. The area around will be red and irritated.

Stage 3 Bedsores

A pressure injury becomes a stage 3 when the skin develops a sunken hole called a crater. This is a sign that the deep layers of skin are seriously compromised and unable to support the upper layers. Body fat may be visible in the crater, and the skin will be dark red and painful.

Stage 4 Bedsores

If a pressure injury reaches stage 4, the damage has penetrated to the muscles and bones, and possibly full joints and tendons. At this stage, the wound will be very deep, and one will likely see body fat, muscle tissue, and even bone.

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Will Surgery Cure A Peptic Ulcer

Medical therapy works in most people with peptic ulcers. Sometimes, medical therapy does not work, or a person can’t take the therapy for some reason. Surgery is an alternative to medical therapy for these people.

Surgical operations often used in peptic ulcers include the following:

• Vagotomy: Cutting the vagus nerve, which transmits messages from the brain to the stomach, can reduce acid secretion. However, this can also interfere with other functions of the stomach. A newer operation cuts only the part of the nerve that affects acid secretion.
• Antrectomy: This is often done in conjunction with a vagotomy. It involves removing the lower part of the stomach . This part of the stomach produces a hormone that increases production of stomach acid. Adjacent parts of the stomach may also be removed.
• Pyloroplasty: This procedure also is sometimes done with vagotomy. It enlarges the opening between the stomach and duodenum to encourage passage of partially digested food. Once the food has passed, acid production normally stops.
• Tying off an artery: If bleeding is a problem, cutting off the blood supply to the ulcer can stop the bleeding.

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Knowing If You Have An Ulcer

Burning stomach pain, burping, bloating and heartburn are among the common signs of an ulcer, Abdi said. But Borum noted that its not unusual for people with ulcers to be asymptomatic until they develop a complication, such as bleeding or perforating, as in Dingells case. About 2 to 10 percent of ulcer patients will experience a perforated ulcer, which often manifests as acute, severe and diffuse abdominal pain, Borum said.

Because of the overlap between symptoms of various gastrointestinal problems, Borum urged people to pay attention to their bodies. If your symptoms are recurring, persistent and increasing in severity, you should definitely seek medical attention, she said.

What Are Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, lower esophagus, or small intestine. Theyre usually formed as a result of inflammation caused by the bacteria H. pylori, as well as from erosion from stomach acids. Peptic ulcers are a fairly common health problem.

There are three types of peptic ulcers:

• gastric ulcers:ulcers that develop inside the stomach
• esophageal ulcers:ulcers that develop inside the esophagus
• duodenal ulcers: ulcers that develop in the upper section of the small intestines, called the duodenum

Different factors can cause the lining of the stomach, the esophagus, and the small intestine to break down. These include:

• Helicobacter pylori , a type of bacteria that can cause a stomach infection and inflammation
• frequent use of aspirin , ibuprofen , and other anti-inflammatory drugs

• difficulty swallowing

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Causes And Risk Factors

• In most cases, peptic ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori , and not by stress or spicy foods. Between 10% and 20% of those infected with H pylori will have a peptic ulcer during their lifetime.
• Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is the second most common cause of ulcers. Women and older adults seem to be more susceptible.
• Compared to other NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors may pose less risk for bleeding, but still increase the risk of bleeding compared with no NSAID use at all.
• Alcohol and smoking are also common risk factors for peptic ulcer.

Peptic Ulcer Healing Drugs

1.AntibioticsFor ulcers caused by H. pylori infection, you will be asked to take two or three antibiotics together with a PPI. There is good evidence that such eradication therapy has benefits both in healing ulcers and preventing recurrence, especially for duodenal ulcer. Commonly used antibiotics are amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole and tetracycline. They are prescription-only medicines and are available in many dosage forms such as tablets and capsules.

2.Proton pump inhibitors PPIs directly suppress gastric acid production by blocking the proton pumps of the gastric parietal cell that is responsible for acid secretion, and thereby promoting the ulcer healing. Their effect on suppressing gastric acid production is stronger than that of Histamine-2 receptor antagonists. These include the pharmacy only medicine omeprazole, and the pharmacy only medicines lansoprazole, rabeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole and aripiprazole. They are available in various dosage forms such as tablets, capsules and injections.

3.Histamine-2 receptor antagonistsHistamine-2 receptor antagonists suppress the secretion of gastric acid by blocking the actions of histamine, a protein produced by the body that stimulates gastric acid secretion. Examples include cimetidine, famotidine and ranitidine. They are over-the-counter medicines and are available in forms of tablets, capsules, syrups or injections.

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How Do You Diagnose Stomach Ulcers

You should see a doctor if your symptoms arent resolving, or if over-the-counter antacids are only working temporarily.

When evaluating patients for stomach ulcers, our gastroenterologists start by taking a detailed patient history and a review of symptoms. Tests we may use to diagnose stomach ulcers include:

• Upper endoscopy, in which the gastroenterologist inserts a special endoscope into the patients mouth to inspect the stomach for ulcers
• Blood, breath, or stool tests to screen for H. pylori

Tip Sheet: Ulcers And Pain Relievers

Be cautious about taking over-the-counter pain relief drugs if you have an ulcer. Some can worsen your symptoms. These tips will help.

If you have an ulcer, you need to be very careful with over-the-counter pain medicines. Remember: No drug is risk-free. It is very important to discuss the use of over-the-counter drugs with your doctor, especially if you have an ulcer or other medical conditions. Here are some tips from the experts for using these medicines safely.

• Avoid Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs . If you have an ulcer, use of NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen could be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. A non-NSAID pain reliever, like acetaminophen, may be a safer choice. Your doctor can recommend appropriate alternatives.
• Take precautions. If you need to use an NSAID, always take it with milk or food to make it easier on your stomach. To prevent problems, your doctor might recommend:
• A prescription proton pump inhibitor
• High doses of prescription H2 receptor antagonists
• Cytotec, a drug to protect your stomach lining

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Read The Ingredients Of All Medicines

Painkillers like aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen can show up in the most unlikely places. For instance, many over-the-counter medicines for colds also contain doses of pain reliever. So make sure you know what you’re getting.

Even some antacids contain aspirin, which can be a special risk to people with ulcers

Tell your doctor about all medicines, herbs, and supplements that you use.

Interactions are a real danger. For instance, taking NSAIDs along with some common medicines, like some corticosteroids and blood thinners can increase the risks for people with ulcers.

Your doctor needs to know about all the medicines you take before you’re prescribed a new medicine. Don’t forget to mention over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies, and vitamins. Bring a list of all the medicines and supplements you take to your doctor. It could actually save your life.”

What Are The Symptoms Of A Peptic Ulcer Does It Cause Pain

Ulcers do not always cause symptoms. Sometimes, a serious complication such as bleeding or a sudden, bad upper abdominal pain is the first sign of an ulcer.

The most common symptom of peptic ulcers is abdominal pain.

• The pain is usually in the upper middle part of the abdomen, above the belly button and below the breastbone.
• The ulcer pain can feel like burning, or gnawing, and it may go through to the back.
• Pain often comes several hours after a meal when the stomach is empty.
• The pain is often worse at night and early morning.
• It can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.
• The ulcer pain may be relieved by food, antacids, or vomiting.

Other symptoms of peptic ulcers include the following:

• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of weight

Severe ulcers may cause bleeding in the stomach or duodenum. Bleeding is sometimes the only symptom of an ulcer. This bleeding can be fast or slow. Fast bleeding reveals itself in one of the following ways:

• Vomiting of blood or dark material that looks something like coffee grounds: This is an emergency and warrants an immediate visit to an emergency department.
• Blood in the stool or black, tarry, sticky-looking stools

Slow bleeding is often more difficult to detect, because it has no dramatic symptoms.

• The usual result is low blood cell count .
• The symptoms of anemia are tiredness , lack of energy , weakness, rapid heartbeat , and pale skin .

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Over The Counter Stomach Ulcer Medication

By | Submitted On October 30, 2010

Ulcers can develop in the stomach, duodenum or the esophagus. There is a misconception that ulcers develop due to stress or eating spicy food. However, the actual cause of ulcers is a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori. No doubt, stress and spicy food tends to make the ulcers worse. Also, certain medications like NSAIDs can lead to ulcers.

Some of the symptoms of ulcers include pain in the abdomen accompanied with burning sensation, pain in the stomach after eating, heartburn, nausea, burping, indigestion, loss of weight, having poor or no appetite, vomiting, stomach pain increasing in degree when the stomach is empty and the stomach pain alleviating after drinking a glass of milk. If you suffer from these symptoms, then in all probability you are suffering from an ulcer. Usually, you will have to adopt lifestyle changes and also take certain medications. Sometimes, over the counter medication is advised for patient suffering from ulcers.

Some of the over the counter medications for stomach ulcers are as follows:

Antacid: This is the most frequently used over the counter medication. It is available in the form of a tablet or syrup. You may have to take the antacid with a prescription acid blocker. Antacid is known to neutralize the acids in the stomach and providing immediate relief from the pain.

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