RISING WOMEN EXPERTS...

I believe I have ulcers. What can I do to fix my stomach pain?
    By Rising Women Experts

Although most believe that ulcers are caused by spicy food, acid or stress, research is revealing that most ulcers are caused by an bacterial infection.

An ulcer is generally a sore or hole in the lining of the stomach or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium that lives on the lining of the stomach and is carried by most of our population. H. pylori can live in the acidic environment of the stomach by burying itself in the stomach wall. The stomach then creates more acid to try to eliminate it and so creates more acid. This “cycle” creates what is known as duodenal or gastric ulcers.

The most common symptom of ulcers include a gripping or burning pain in the abdomen; between the breastbone and the belly button. The pain often occurs when the stomach is empty and most commonly in the early morning hours, but it can occur any time. The pain can last a few minutes to hours and may be relieved by eating or taking antacids. Less common symptoms include nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite. In severe cases, ulcers bleed which is known to lead to anemia. If bleeding is heavy, dark red or black blood may appear in bowel movements or vomit.

There are a few tests available to pinpoint whether you have the H. pylori bacteria. Conventional blood tests and breath tests are available by recommendation of your physician. An Endoscopy is another alternative. This is a test in which a small tube with a camera inside is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach. During this test, samples of the stomach lining are obtained and tested for H. pylori.

Conventional treatment and cure for ulcers is available through pharmaceutical antibiotics. This approach needs to be discussed with your physician. NOTE: If prescribed Tagament or Zantac, do your research first as there is huge controversy documented on both drugs.

For the natural approach -- and highly encouraged before you resort to pharmaceuticals -- there are an abundance of wholistic alternatives including drinking cabbage juice! From our research, it is recommended that you first get tested for food allergies. Concentrating on eliminating or reducing foods or other contributing factors such as a low-fiber diet or smoking, for example, may help to heal the ulcers and promote tissue resistance. Consult a Naturopath, Homeopathic practitioner or other wholistic service provider to seek out the best approach.

To have your health concerns answered, consult our team of Experts by emailing experts@risingwomen.com