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Ulcer of Intestine
An intestinal ulcer-an open sore in your small intestine-can lead to pain, bleeding, and blockages. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott utilizes advanced diagnostics and personalized, safe and effective treatments to quickly identify ulcers, manage symptoms, and guide your recovery.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Long-term use of NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
He discusses the character, timing, and triggers of your epigastric pain, reviews NSAID or alcohol use, checks for weight changes or bleeding signs, and performs a targeted abdominal exam.
Blood Tests
We draw a complete blood count (CBC) to detect anemia, run H. pylori serology or urea breath tests, and check inflammatory markers to exclude conditions like Crohn's.
Imaging Studies
CT enterography visualizes ulcer location, wall thickening, or complications such as perforation.
Abdominal ultrasound rules out gallbladder or pancreatic causes and assesses for fluid collections.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
An upper endoscopy (EGD) or capsule endoscopy directly identifies small‐bowel ulcers and allows for biopsy or H. pylori sampling. In rare complex cases, laparoscopic evaluation may be employed.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for intestinal ulcers.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Reduce or avoid spicy, fried, and acidic foods
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
Practice stress-relief techniques such as light exercise or guided breathing
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
H2 blockers for ongoing acid control
Antibiotics when H. pylori infection is present
Iron or B12 supplements to address anemia
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic therapies to seal bleeding ulcers
Laparoscopic surgery for large or refractory ulcers
Capsule endoscopy for detailed visualization of the small intestine
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of intestinal ulcers?
Intestinal ulcers occur in the duodenum, jejunum, or ileum-the three sections of the small intestine.
What causes intestinal ulcers?
Common causes include long-term NSAID use, H. pylori infection, smoking, heavy alcohol use, stress or severe illness, Crohn's disease, and family history.
What are the symptoms of an intestinal ulcer?
Typical symptoms include abdominal pain after meals, nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating, and dark or bloody stools.
Can diet alone heal an intestinal ulcer?
A healthy diet helps reduce irritation, but most people also need medications like PPIs or antibiotics for H. pylori to fully heal the ulcer.
How are intestinal ulcers diagnosed?
Dr. Scott uses upper or capsule endoscopy, blood tests for anemia or H. pylori, stool tests, and imaging such as CT scans to confirm the diagnosis.
What happens if an intestinal ulcer is left untreated?
Untreated ulcers can bleed, perforate (tear), or cause intestinal blockages, leading to serious complications that require emergency care.
How long does it take for an intestinal ulcer to heal?
With proper treatment-including medications and lifestyle changes-most intestinal ulcers heal within 4 to 8 weeks.
