Possible ulcer?

Good morning friends,

I searched the boards here this morning about ulcers and I believe I have at least the start of one. I've had dull stomach pain at the center of my abdomen right beneath my xiphoid process for 3-4 days now first thing in the morning. My stomach has felt full, kind of like gas intermittently.

Obviously I don't take NSAIDS, but I have started drinking diet colas (1 per day) at lunch in the past 6 weeks or so. That is stopping today. I picked up Prilosec on my way to work to self medicate, but I'm going to call my surgeon today as well.

Other than caffeine avoidance, anything else obvious? Spicy foods I guess?

TIA.

I don't blame caffeine or spicy foods. Sometimes ulcers happen. Glad you are seeing a doctor .

I have the same- particularily in the morning which gets better through day.

I cut out all carbonation, no gum (adds air which causes issue).

I'm back on my protonix daily. was hoping these herbal remedies the doc gave me would help but has not so far. Maybe need to give more time. Acid is worse at night and first thing in AM

My surgeon's monthly support group session was last week. This month he stopped in and did a Q&A with patients. One of the questions was "how can you tell if you have an ulcer"? His answer was -- if your stomach aches when it's empty, but feels better after feeding, it's probably an ulcer. He also said that the most common reasons for ulcer were smoking and nsaids.

I'm no doctor, but that's what my doc told us last week about the subject. I hope you feel better!

My doc said I didn't have any of the risk factors except RNY, itself, but that is a big enough risk factor on its own.

I have a wide spread burning sensation across my entire chest and in my throat. Worse in the morning but just sort of present all day. Starting PPIs and Carafate and if it's not better in 30 days they will do an exploratory endoscope.

I am so sorry to hear this!

My doctor told me that these may cause ulcers and to avoid as much as possible.

NSAIDs

H. Pylori infection

Smoking

Alcohol

Sodas - sugar/diet

Coffee - caf/decaf

Well I had to make an appointment. They wanted me to see the surgeon who didn't have anything open until 5/19 and I complained a little. Asked if they wouldn't just called in Carafate. NOPE.

I'm seeing the NP on 5/11 instead. The MA said they would likely scope me. Blech.

I will take the Prilose****il then.

Bummer.

My surgeon said to just start the Carafate because the treatment is the same no matter what is causing it...

That would be the right thing to say and would be in the patients best interest. I'm hoping this isn't money driven.