How to Test for an Ulcer

An ulcer generally refers to a sore located in the stomach, esophagus (tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) or duodenum (upper portion of the small intestine). Peptic ulcers are known to be caused by bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori. Ulcers can also be caused by medications, allergies, alcohol consumption, smoking, stress and/or disease.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Review Your Ulcer Test Options

1. Ask your doctor to perform a physical examination before requesting an ulcer test. Explain your present symptoms and concerns, along with your past medical history. The doctor will also ask you about your family's health history, your allergies and your current medications.
2. Obtain an upper gastrointestinal series, or upper GI. This test looks for ulcers to show up in relevant organs on an X-ray. You will have to drink a liquid barium shake to get a clear X-ray of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. This test is sometimes referred to as a barium follow-through or barium swallow.
3. Get an endoscopy. During this exam, an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera on the end) is passed down your throat and through your stomach and duodenum. It requires mild sedation and a numbing throat spray to prevent discomfort. The endoscope will take pictures to help the doctor determine if an ulcer is present.
4. Request a biopsy (removal of tissue). An endoscope can also take a small sample of tissue from the stomach to be examined. A biopsy can be tested for the H. pylori bacteria or for other diseases that could be causing symptoms.
5. Test your blood for H. pylori bacteria. A test called the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, or ELISA, can be performed in the doctor's office to screen the blood for H. pylori.
6. Consider a gastric acid test if you have been diagnosed with an ulcer. A gastric acid test determines if ulcers are caused by a damaging secretion of stomach acid. During this test, the stomach's contents are sampled at 15-minute intervals over the course of an hour to test for acid.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider employing a gastroenterologist or gastrointestinal specialist as your doctor while testing for ulcers. Gastroenterologists are the most knowledgeable about tests and treatments for ulcers and ulcer symptoms.
• Call a doctor immediately if you experience blood in your vomit or in your stools. Blood in the vomit or bowel movements can be the sign of a serious medical condition and may require immediate emergency care. Dark and black vomit or stools also signal a severe problem.

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