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Duodenal Ulcer

GastroDoxs, proudly serving Jersey Village residents, specializes in comprehensive duodenal ulcer care, offering expert diagnosis, personalized treatment plans and compassionate support to ensure lasting stomach relief, improved digestive health and convenient access to advanced gastroenterology services here in our community.

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Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is a Duodenal Ulcer?

A duodenal ulcer is an open sore that forms in the lining of the duodenum, the first part of your small intestine. When stomach acid erodes this protective layer, it leads to a burning or gnawing pain-often felt on an empty stomach or at night.

Common Symptoms

You may notice one or more of the following:

  • Burning or sharp pain in the upper abdomen (center or right side)
  • Pain between meals or that wakes you at night
  • Bloating or frequent burping
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dark, tarry stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds (a sign of bleeding)
  • Occasional weight gain from dietary changes or medications

Causes

Duodenal ulcers most commonly develop due to:

  • H. pylori infection (a bacteria that damages the intestinal lining)
  • Frequent use of NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen)
  • Excessive stomach acid production
  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol consumption
Treatment

Treatment Options for Duodenal Ulcer in Jersey Village

Treatment includes medical therapy, diet & lifestyle changes, and advanced care:

  • Triple therapy: A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) plus two antibiotics for 10-14 days to eradicate H. pylori and heal the ulcer.
  • Acid blockers: PPIs or H2-receptor antagonists to reduce stomach acid and relieve pain.
  • Mucosal protectants: Medications such as sucralfate that coat and protect the ulcer base.
  • Duodenal ulcer diet: Soft-cooked vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and yogurt to soothe your digestive tract.
  • Avoid trigger foods: Spicy dishes, fried foods, caffeine and alcohol that can irritate the ulcer.
  • Small, frequent meals: Eating 5-6 smaller meals a day helps keep acid levels steady.
  • Smoking cessation & stress management: Quitting smoking and adopting relaxation techniques to support healing.
  • Endoscopy: Diagnostic and therapeutic scope to visualize the ulcer and assess healing.
  • Surgery: Reserved for complications such as perforation or ulcers unresponsive to medical treatment.
  • Follow-up care: Regular appointments with your Jersey Village gastroenterologist to monitor progress and adjust therapy.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

At GastroDoxs, our Jersey Village team combines specialized gastrointestinal expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care. We offer prompt appointments, advanced diagnostics, and personalized treatment plans designed to heal your duodenal ulcer and restore your quality of life. Don't let ulcer pain hold you back-book your appointment today and start your journey to lasting relief.

1.3K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.3K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a duodenal ulcer?

Look for burning or sharp pain in the upper belly (center or right side), especially when your stomach is empty or between meals.

Can a duodenal ulcer bleed?

Yes. Bleeding may present as dark, tarry stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Where is duodenal ulcer pain usually felt?

Pain is typically felt in the upper middle or right side of the abdomen.

Can a duodenal ulcer cause weight gain?

Not usually. However, some people may gain weight due to diet changes or medications taken to manage symptoms.

What is the ICD-10 code for a perforated duodenal ulcer?

The ICD-10 code for a perforated duodenal ulcer is K26.1.

How long does triple therapy take?

Most courses of triple therapy (a proton pump inhibitor plus two antibiotics) last about 10 to 14 days.

Can my diet help heal a duodenal ulcer?

Yes. Eating small, frequent meals of soft-cooked vegetables, lean proteins, grains, and yogurt can ease symptoms-though medications are still necessary for healing.

When should I see a doctor?

Schedule an appointment if your pain persists, if you experience vomiting, or if you notice blood in your stool or vomit.

Can I use home remedies?

Home remedies like eating small meals and avoiding trigger foods may relieve symptoms, but you should also seek medical evaluation and treatment.

Does stress cause ulcers?

Stress does not directly cause ulcers but can worsen symptoms and delay healing.

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