Stomach Ulcer Home Treatment

Stomach ulcers are one of the common gastrointestinal conditions that develop on the walls of the lower esophagus, stomach or duodenum. This condition is characterized by open lesions or erosion of the mucosal lining of the above said locations. As these open sores or lesions expose the nerves beneath the mucosal lining, these ulcers cause sharp gnawing pain, that worsens, as the sores come in contact with the stomach acids. Apart from pain, some of the affected people may experience nausea, vomiting, heartburn and weight loss. Though treatment is necessary to counter this condition, but, you may also try some home remedies, so as to ease the symptoms.

More About Stomach Ulcers

These ulcers are commonly found in both men and women. Even though, it is not considered a life-threatening condition, these ulcers may turn fatal, without treatment. These lesions may start bleeding or cause perforation of the site. While the latter condition is a medical emergency, even bleeding ulcers may sometimes require immediate medical attention. In case of bleeding ulcers, the person may have dark tarry stools or blood in the vomit. But, what causes stomach ulcers. Earlier, it was thought that such ulcers were caused by various factors like stress and consumption of spicy food. But, recent studies that more than 80% of these ulcers are caused by helicobacter pylori infection. Use of certain medication is also a cause for this condition. However, stress, sedentary lifestyle, excess alcohol consumption, obesity, smoking, are also considered as risk factors. Stomach ulcer treatment is decided as per the underlying cause. In case of bacterial infection, antibiotics are prescribed. Other medication used to treat this condition are those for neutralizing or reducing stomach acids. Sometimes, surgery may also be required for treating these ulcers. Along with the regular treatment, you may resort to some home treatment for relief from the symptoms.

Home Remedies

This condition requires proper treatment for healing. Along with the regular treatment, you may try certain home remedies, for relief from the symptoms. It is also claimed that some of these remedies are sufficient for treating mild cases of stomach ulcers.

• Cabbage juice and aloe vera juice are said to be highly effective in countering these ulcers. While, cabbage juice increases the blood flow to the stomach lining, thereby strengthening it, aloe vera juice is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that fights bacteria too.
• Another antibacterial agent that is claimed to kill helicobacter pylori is cayenne pepper. It is said that its active ingredient called capsaicin helps in reducing bleeding from ulcers and in easing the pain.
• While, milk is said to be highly effective in easing stomach ulcer symptoms, recent studies claim that the positive effects of milk lasts only for a short time, as it stimulates acid production in the stomach. Raw goat milk is said to be beneficial in healing such ulcers.
• Banana is believed to be beneficial for neutralizing stomach acids, thereby reducing inflammation. It is said to coat the ulcers, so that the lesions do not come into contact with the gastric juices.
• Even yogurt is said to work wonders in healing ulcers in the stomach. Some people use yogurt mixed with drumstick paste as a home remedy.
• An infusion made by boiling fenugreek leaves in water, is claimed to be good for treating ulcers. Even herbal tea prepared with fenugreek seeds are used for this purpose. Fenugreek creates a mucilaginous coating that covers the ulcers, thereby, speeding up the healing process.
• Honey, with its antibacterial properties is also claimed to be beneficial in healing these ulcers. Even lemon juice is used for this purpose.

To summarize, stomach ulcer home treatment may prove useful in easing the symptoms, as well as in healing the lesions. Apart from conventional treatment and home remedies, you have to pay attention to certain lifestyle factors too. Avoid stress, start a balanced diet, increase intake of water, increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables (especially, green leafy ones), reduce spicy and junk food and adopt a good exercise regimen. If you find any food item causing exaggeration of symptoms, avoid it. Instead of big meals, opt for smaller, but frequent meals. Even smoking and alcohol consumption must be avoided. So, the above said lifestyle changes, along with proper treatment and home remedies, can expedite the healing process.