Figure 3-1. Pylorus (the opening between the stomach and the duodenum).
(6) Treatment. The goal of medical treatment of peptic ulcer is to provide
the best conditions for the ulcer to heal. To that end, treatment tries to increase the pH
level and neutralize gastric hydrochloric acid as well as reduce the amount of
hydrochloric acid secreted. Conventional ulcer management is as follows:
(a) For acute symptoms the patient should take a two to three week's
rest from work, at home in bed if possible. If the patient must work, he should arrange
for rest periods while at work and be sure to get enough sleep at night.
(b) Relieve anxiety.
(c)
No alcohol.
(d) Stop smoking, if possible without too much stress.
(e) Avoid drugs which may aggravate the condition and even cause
perforation and hemorrhage. Stop taking these drugs if he is taking them now:
1 Rauwolfia.
2 Phenylbutazone.
3 Indomethacin.
4 Large doses of salicylates.
MD0581
3-12