$Unique_ID{BRK01588}
$Pretitle{Digestive System}
$Title{Is the Only Sure Cure For a Stomach Ulcer an Operation?}
$Subject{ulcer stomach treatment surgery}
$Volume{I-10}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is the Only Sure Cure For a Stomach Ulcer an Operation?


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QUESTION:  I have been on medication to treat a stomach ulcer for some weeks
now, and am feeling much better.  However, my brother keeps telling me that
the only sure cure is an operation, something my own doctor has never
mentioned.  Should I be following my brother's caution and seek the advice of
another physician and a second opinion?

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ANSWER:  Second opinions from another physician are a valuable resource when
considering an operation recommended by your own doctor, but are rarely
necessary in a case such as yours.  By your own admission you are doing well
on the medications your doctor has prescribed, and are feeling better.  To be
sure, follow up examinations should be undertaken to determine the present
state of your stomach ulcer.  Gradually, over time it should disappear
completely under the effects of the medications.  There are now quite a few
very effective medications available, which lower the amount of acid produced
by cells in the lining of the stomach, which allow the ulcer to heal.  In
reality, the ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach, resulting from an
injury to the tissues that may be caused by bacteria, some medications, and
alcohol, among others.  With successful treatment, this sore heals, and the
symptoms that may be present, disappear.  An operation is not required under
these circumstances.  However ulcers frequently do recur, and when they return
often, and then fail to respond to medications, or if complications do occur,
surgery will have to be considered as a method of treatment.  The failure of
an ulcer to heal is the most frequent indication for surgery, for such cases
may turn out to be an ulcerating cancer.  That requires careful evaluation,
using gastroscopy, or direct viewing of the inside of the stomach using a
telescopic like instrument.  During the procedure a biopsy or tissue sample
may be taken, an then examined under the microscope to determine its nature.
Surgery is only undertaken when the indications are there, for it is not the
most pleasant experience, and has its own set of complications.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
