Stomach Ulcers: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Many complain about having stomach pains as a result of having stomach ulcers. There are various causes and symptoms. Fortunately, there are holistic treatments that can offer relief.

A bacteria called Helicobacter Pylori is the cause of 80 to 90 percent of all ulcers. Stomach ulcers can also be caused by a deterioration of the mucosal lining of the stomach that protects the stomach from acid. Other causes of stomach ulcers are excess acid production, the overuse of medications like aspirin, and smoking. Genetic predisposition and stress are factors in the development of ulcers. The use of certain medications, such as the overuse of aspirin, can aggravate stomach ulcers.

Symptoms can mimic other disorders. The burning feeling in the upper abdomen caused by stomach ulcers can be mistaken for heartburn. The amount of pain and the time of the pain varies with the individual. Loss of appetite and weight loss are also common side effects. Further symptoms are vomiting and bloody stool.

There are many pharmacological treatments on the market to treat them. A bacterial stomach ulcer is often treated by antibiotics. What you may not know, is that there are many natural remedies that treat stomach ulcers very effectively. Of course, if you smoke, or take excess aspirin or other ulcer causing medicine, the first step is to cut the aggravating substance from your diet. Then you can fight the ulcers with the following home remedies:

1. Add licorice to your diet. It is an anti-inflammatory agent and it will help reduce stomach acid and support the stomach lining. Chew deglycyrrhizinated licorice before eating and at bedtime.

2. Take 25 to 50 mg of zinc to aid in healing.

3. Use vitamins that support the lining of your stomach such as Vitamin A and beta-carotene.

4. Add bananas to your diet. This is an easy and natural way to soothe your stomach.

5. Increase fiber in your diet to prevent the development of some types of ulcers.

6. Use herbs such as slipper elm and golden seal root to reduce inflammation and fight bacteria.

7. Evaluate your diet to determine if you should eliminate unhealthy eating habits. Excessive fried foods are not good for anyone. If you are predisposed to stomach ulcers, you will want to cut out possible exacerbating foods.

8. Try relaxation techniques. Some tests indicate that the use of acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and massage helps the body to heal itself when you have ulcers.

By understanding the causes and symptoms of stomach ulcers, you will be prepared to combat the root of the problem and deal with the aggravating symptoms. Remember that stomach ulcers are nothing to ignore. Severe bleeding and the development of worse conditions can result from letting them go. Fortunately, there are natural, inexpensive, and easy ways to treat stomach ulcers.