Peptic ulcer (adjunctive care)
Also known as: peptic ulcer, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, stomach ulcer
A peptic ulcer is a sore in the stomach or duodenum lining, usually from H. pylori infection or anti-inflammatory medicines. Testing for H. pylori and acid-suppressing treatment are standard care. Chinese medicine sees it as Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Stomach Heat, or Spleen-Stomach deficiency with stasis.
Plain-English one-pager you can print or hand to a patient. Free, no sign-in needed.
Lifestyle & Diet
- •Finish the full H. pylori treatment course if prescribed, and take acid suppressants as directed.
- •Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen where possible — ask your GP about alternatives.
- •Stop smoking and limit alcohol.
- •Eat smaller, regular meals; avoid eating late at night.
- •Retest for H. pylori after treatment if your doctor advises.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Never treat suspected ulcer pain with acupuncture or herbs alone — H. pylori testing and medical care come first.[,]
- •Bleeding, perforation or obstruction are surgical emergencies.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Track pain scores and reflux weekly; confirm H. pylori eradication and ulcer healing through the GP.
Explore more diseases
Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- NHS · 2024
- GESA · 2024
- AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.