The severity of gastric ulcers varies from person to person, and some patients require surgical treatment, depending on the size, location, and complications of the ulcer. Treatment methods include medication, endoscopic treatment, and surgical intervention, and the choice should be made based on the patient's condition.
1. The severity of gastric ulcers
The severity of a stomach ulcer depends on its depth and whether it is accompanied by bleeding or perforation. Superficial ulcers can usually be relieved with medication, but deep ulcers or those accompanied by massive bleeding or perforation may require emergency surgery. Long-term non-healing ulcers may also increase the risk of cancer, requiring regular endoscopic monitoring.
2. Drug treatment
Drug therapy is the first-line treatment for gastric ulcers, primarily by inhibiting gastric acid secretion and protecting the gastric mucosa. Commonly used drugs include proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole and lansoprazole, H2 receptor antagonists such as ranitidine and famotidine, and gastric mucosal protectants such as sucralfate and bismuth preparations. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin are used to treat Helicobacter pylori infection.
3. Endoscopic treatment
For gastric ulcers accompanied by bleeding, endoscopic treatment is an important means of hemostasis. Methods include endoscopic injection of epinephrine, electrocoagulation, and titanium clip hemostasis. Endoscopic treatment is minimally invasive, allows for rapid recovery, and is suitable for most patients with bleeding ulcers.
4. Surgical treatment
Surgical treatment should be considered when gastric ulcers are complicated by massive bleeding, perforation, or pyloric obstruction. Surgical procedures include subtotal gastrectomy, vagotomy, and ulcer perforation repair. Surgical treatment can effectively resolve complications, but postoperative dietary management and long-term follow-up are necessary.
The severity and treatment of gastric ulcers depend on individual circumstances, with early diagnosis and standardized treatment being crucial. Patients should take medication as prescribed, have regular check-ups, and undergo timely surgical intervention when necessary to reduce the risk of complications.