For people with Helicobacter pylori infection, the main goal is eradication of the organism which causes the problem. Multiple regimens are effective and usually include either an H2 receptor antagonist such as famotidine (Pepcid) or nizatidine (Axid) or a proton pump inhibitor such as omeprazole (Prilosec) or esomeprazole (Nexium) to suppress acid, combined with two antibiotics.

For people without H. pylori infection, ulcer-healing medications such as antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, or proton pump inhibitors are usually effective. Long-term treatment may be required.

In the event of bleeding from the ulcer, endoscopic therapy can control bleeding in most cases.

Surgical intervention may be recommended for people who do not respond to medical therapy or to endoscopic therapy for bleeding. A vagotomy (cutting the vagus nerve, which controls the stomach's production of gastric acid) or a partial gastrectomy (removal of part of the stomach) may be necessary.

Self-help measures include:

• Avoiding smoking
• Avoiding tea, coffee, and soft drinks containing caffeine
• Avoiding alcohol
• Avoiding aspirin and NSAIDs
• Eating several small meals a day at regular intervals

Most ulcers heal with medication in 6 to 8 weeks. Recurrence is common but is less likely if H. pylori infection is treated and acid-blocking medications are continued.

• Bleeding from the ulcer
• Perforation (hole) in the stomach
• Obstruction of the passage of stomach contents

Complications are often corrected by medication, through an endoscope, or (in rare instances) with surgery.

Call your health care provider if symptoms of gastric ulcer develop.