I was having a burning upper abdominal pain for the past one year, on and off. It was considered to be Ulcer in the stomach and I was getting good relief by the ulcer medications (Prilosec) prescribed by my GP. He referred me to a Gastroenterologist for Endoscopy and for detailed evaluation. The Endoscopy showed ulcers in my stomach and nothing else. A breath test for ulcer was done, which was positive. He prescribed me a pack of drugs called Pylori Kit which contains antibiotics and some ulcer drugs. Even though the MD convinced me initially to take the medication, after doing a bit of research on internet now I am confused. My question is that since I was getting good relief from my earlier anti ulcer drugs should I just stick to it? Is read there are many side effects I also read surgery can cure the ulcers, so should I consider that as an option?

Thank you for asking your question

I will try my best to help you. From your description of the problem, I presume that you have been diagnosed with Peptic Ulcer. Peptic Ulcer is basically sores or eroded areas in the stomach or small intestinal lining. The major causes for this are NSAID drugs (pain medications) and bacteria called H. Pylori. Since you have not mentioned any history of Drug Intake and since the breath test (for H.Pylori) is positive it’s highly likely that the cause of the Peptic Ulcer in your case is H.Pylori bacteria.

Now coming to your question, whether you should take the Pylori eradication drug kit or not. The answer is yes. I suggest you to take it as directed by the Medical Gastroenterologist. Anti Ulcer drugs will only give you a symptomatic relief. It won’t address the root problem which is the H.Pylori bacteria which is causing it. In order to treat the bacteria you need to take the anti – H. Pylori drugs as prescribed. It’s the only proven and effective solution to the H.Pylori infection. In addition to that you may take these precautions to prevent further ulcerations and promote healing of existing ones. There are of course side effects reported with these medications, but the benefit you will receive largely outweighs the risk of side effects. So go ahead with it. Consult your GP in case of any difficulties.

Here are few suggestions which can further help your body in the process of healing those ulcers.
1)  Stop smoking in case you smoke.
2)  Avoid over the counter pain medications (NSAIDs).
3)  Avoid spicy and irritant foods.
4)  Bringing down stress level is also proven to reduce ulcer incidence.
5)  Avoid native medications and unproven remedies.