Why Your Stomach Ulcer Is Not Going Away

You took the drugs.
You avoided pepper.
You expected relief.

Yet the pain keeps coming back.

A stomach ulcer heals in most people within 4 to 8 weeks when treated properly. If yours refuses to go, something is feeding it. Here are the common reasons.

1. You still have Helicobacter pylori infection

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that damages the stomach lining. It causes many stomach ulcers.

If treatment did not completely clear the infection, the ulcer will return. Some people stop antibiotics too early. Others were never tested after treatment.

What to do:
• Complete your full antibiotic dose
• Ask your doctor for a follow up test
• Do not self medicate repeatedly

2. You are still using painkillers

Frequent use of NSAIDs such as:
• Ibuprofen
• Diclofenac
• Aspirin

These drugs weaken the stomach’s protective lining. Even small daily doses can delay healing.

What to do:
• Avoid unnecessary painkillers
• Speak with your doctor for safer alternatives
• Never mix multiple painkillers

3. You keep taking alcohol

Alcohol irritates the ulcer surface. It slows healing and increases bleeding risk.

Even moderate drinking affects recovery.

What to do:
• Stop alcohol completely during treatment
• Give your stomach time to repair

4. You are under constant stress

Stress does not directly cause ulcers, but it increases stomach acid. More acid means more irritation.

Poor sleep and anxiety also slow healing.

What to do:
• Improve sleep habits
• Reduce daily stress triggers
• Practice regular relaxation

5. You are not taking your medication correctly

Ulcer drugs like proton pump inhibitors must be taken properly. Timing matters.

Common mistakes include:
• Skipping doses
• Taking drugs after meals when they should be before meals
• Stopping medication once pain reduces

Pain relief does not mean healing is complete.

6. Smoking

Smoking reduces blood flow to the stomach lining. This delays healing and increases recurrence.

If you smoke, your ulcer will struggle to close.

7. It may not be a simple ulcer

Persistent symptoms may signal that you have any of the following Ulcers
• Complicated ulcer
• Bleeding ulcer
• Gastric cancer

Some of the Warning signs are:
• Vomiting blood
• Black stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe weakness

The above signs require urgent medical attention. Contact your nearest Hospital

How to help your ulcer heal faster

• Finish all prescribed medication
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Reduce painkiller use
• Eat balanced meals
• Seek medical review if symptoms persist

An ulcer that refuses to heal is a sign. Do not ignore it. Treat the root cause. Protect your stomach.