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Ulcers

At GastroDoxs in our beloved hometown, we specialize in compassionate ulcer diagnosis and management, combining personalized care with advanced treatments to help residents find lasting relief, making proactive digestive health support easily accessible right in your own neighborhood.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What Are Ulcers?

Ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of your digestive tract or on your skin and mouth. They occur when protective barriers are damaged and acid or friction eats away at the tissue. Common types include peptic ulcers in the stomach or small intestine, mouth ulcers (canker sores), diabetic foot ulcers on the skin, and colon ulcers associated with ulcerative colitis.

Common Symptoms

Ulcer symptoms can vary by location, but you may experience:

  • Burning or gnawing pain in the belly or chest
  • Indigestion, heartburn, or acid reflux
  • Nausea or occasional vomiting
  • Bloating or feeling full after small meals
  • Loose stools or diarrhea
  • Black, tarry stools or bloody vomit (sign of bleeding ulcer)
  • Unintentional weight loss or fatigue

Causes

Ulcers form when protective factors are overwhelmed by irritants. Major risk factors include:

  • Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria
  • Regular use of NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin)
  • Smoking tobacco or excessive alcohol use
  • High stress levels or chronic illness
  • Irritating foods (spicy, acidic, or fried items)
  • Chemotherapy-induced mouth ulcers
  • Autoimmune inflammation as seen in ulcerative colitis
Treatment

Treatment Options for Ulcers in Katy

Treatment includes medications, diet, endoscopy, and lifestyle measures:

  • Medications: Antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori and acid reducers (PPIs, H2 blockers) to promote healing.
  • Diet modifications: Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine and acidic juices; eat small, frequent meals to ease digestion.
  • Antacids & soothing liquids: Over-the-counter antacids or sucralfate suspensions coat the ulcer and relieve pain.
  • Endoscopy & diagnostics: Gastroscopy to visualize ulcers, confirm ICD-10 code (K27), assess bleeding and guide therapy.
  • Surgery: Reserved for complications such as ongoing bleeding, perforation or cases of ulcerative colitis requiring resection.
  • Lifestyle changes: Quit smoking, limit NSAIDs, manage stress through relaxation techniques to support healing.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

At GastroDoxs, we specialize in compassionate, patient-centered ulcer care tailored to your unique needs. Our expert team offers advanced diagnostics, evidence-based treatments, and ongoing support to help you heal quickly and maintain long-term digestive health. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting ulcer relief.

1.5K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.5K 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

Can ulcers cause diarrhea?

Yes. Some ulcers irritate your gastrointestinal tract, leading to loose or frequent stools.

Can you die from a bleeding ulcer?

A serious bleeding ulcer can cause internal hemorrhage. If you notice black stool or vomit blood, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

What is the ICD-10 code for diabetic foot ulcer?

The ICD-10 code for diabetic foot ulcer falls under L97. The exact code varies based on the ulcer's location, severity, and depth.

Where can I see diabetic foot ulcer pictures?

You can request examples at our clinic or visit reputable medical websites for real patient images and educational resources.

What's the difference between a mouth ulcer and cancer?

Mouth ulcers typically heal within 1-2 weeks. Cancerous sores may grow, bleed, persist beyond two weeks, or have irregular edges-get evaluated if a sore doesn't improve.

What foods should I avoid with ulcers?

Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, coffee, acidic juices, and fried or fatty meals, as they can aggravate ulcer symptoms and delay healing.

Are mouth ulcers and chemotherapy connected?

Yes. Chemotherapy can damage the mucous lining of the mouth, causing painful ulcers. We provide strategies and treatments to relieve pain and promote healing.

What's the ICD-10 code for peptic ulcer disease?

Uncomplicated peptic ulcers are coded as K27. Additional codes apply if there is bleeding, perforation, or other complications involved.

When is surgery needed for ulcerative colitis?

Surgery may be recommended if medications fail to control symptoms, if there is severe bleeding, risk of cancer, or other serious complications.

When should I see a gastroenterologist in Katy for ulcers?

Schedule an appointment if you experience persistent pain for more than two weeks, any bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or repeated vomiting.

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