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Check your symptomsFoods, Drinks and Drugs that Worsen a Stomach Ulcer
July 22, 2023
If you suffer from excess acid trouble, it’s important to be mindful of what you eat and drink, as they are common stomach ulcer triggers.
Certain foods, drinks, and drugs can worsen your symptoms and trigger flare-ups.
By avoiding these specific triggers, you can take control of your stomach ulcer and manage your symptoms more effectively.
Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are often caused by a bacterial infection called Helicobacter pylori.
Other common causes include the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking.
In addition to these causes, certain foods, drinks, and drugs can act as triggers for stomach ulcer flare-ups.
It’s important to understand these triggers in order to prevent the worsening of symptoms and promote healing.
Spicy and acidic foods can irritate the lining of the stomach and worsen the symptoms of a stomach ulcer.
It’s best to avoid foods such as chilli peppers, hot sauces, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar.
These stomach ulcer triggers can increase stomach acid production and lead to discomfort and pain.
Opt for milder, non-acidic options to prevent flare-ups and promote healing.
Alcohol and caffeine are known to irritate the stomach lining and can trigger flare-ups of stomach ulcers.
It’s important to limit your intake of these substances to prevent worsening of symptoms.
Alcohol can increase stomach acid production and cause inflammation, while caffeine can stimulate the production of gastric acid.
Opt for non-alcoholic and decaffeinated beverages to reduce the risk of stomach ulcer flare-ups.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can be harmful to individuals with stomach ulcers.
These medications are stomach ulcer triggers that can increase the risk of bleeding and further damage to the stomach lining.
It is important to avoid NSAIDs or consult with a healthcare professional for alternative pain relief options if you have a stomach ulcer.
Opt for acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead, as it is less likely to cause irritation to the stomach.
Many other drugs can trigger stomach ulcers, including over-the-counter ones.
If you develop new symptoms or flare-ups of ulcer pain, speak to your doctor. They can review the medicines you are taking to see if they may be responsible.
Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are stomach ulcer triggers that can worsen ulcer symptoms and delay healing.
The chemicals in cigarettes can irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production, leading to more pain and inflammation.
Quitting smoking is essential for managing stomach ulcers and promoting overall health.
Additionally, it is important to avoid secondhand smoke as it can have similar negative effects on the stomach.
Creating a smoke-free environment is crucial for preventing flare-ups and supporting the healing process.
More Reading
Editing by AskAwayHealth Team
Disclaimer
All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising Medical Practitioners to help promote quality healthcare. The advice in our material is not meant to replace a qualified healthcare practitioner’s management of your specific condition.
Please get in touch with a health practitioner to discuss your condition, or reach us directly here.
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