Sharing the method of managing after being diagnosed with 'gastric ulcer' and undergoing medication treatment.

I usually did not have regular meals and had a habit of eating quickly. Due to these poor eating habits and high work-related stress, I underwent an endoscopy at Hanmaeum Hospital this year as part of a health check-up, where I was diagnosed with a stomach ulcer and Helicobacter pylori bacteria. On days when I was particularly stressed and anxious, I experienced symptoms of stomach burning and occasionally stomach cramps. I had an idea that my stomach was not in good condition, but the hospital professor emphasized that I needed treatment and proper management because of the stomach ulcer, which made me realize I should be more cautious.

I was prescribed a two-week course of medication to eliminate Helicobacter pylori and a liquid medication called Almagel for gastric ulcers, which I took diligently for a while. After re-examination, I received the results confirming that the Helicobacter pylori bacteria had been eradicated. Currently, I have finished all the medication, so I no longer keep the medication packaging, but I have a medical certificate from my most recent outpatient visit last week, which I am attaching as a photo. The doctor no longer prescribed any medication and advised me to undergo a follow-up gastroscopy in one year. I was also advised to diligently manage my health on my own.

 

I will introduce the usual management methods for the gastric ulcer I have.

 

The top priority method is to avoid spicy and salty foods.

I usually enjoyed spicy and stimulating foods. I particularly liked eating spicy dishes more than others. After being diagnosed with a stomach ulcer, I made an effort to eat milder, blander foods. It wasn't easy at first, but after a few months of effort, my taste gradually changed. I still haven't completely given up spicy tteokbokki that I used to eat occasionally, but I don't enjoy it as often as before. Since I now eat blander foods, my taste is gradually becoming more suited to mild dishes. For stomach ulcers, warm and soft foods are generally better, so I am trying to eat that way.

 

The second method for managing gastric ulcers is to eat three regular meals on time every day. I think I have been skipping breakfast for decades. There are opinions that skipping breakfast and having a long fasting period is good for the stomach, but in my case, I experienced a burning sensation in my stomach when I had a long fasting period. So these days, I make sure to eat breakfast, even if it's simple. Eating a full Korean breakfast felt a bit heavy, so I soothe my empty stomach with lightly blanched vegetables and boiled eggs or potatoes. I found that this method makes my stomach feel much better and suits me well.

 

Third, I stopped enjoying late-night snacks. I knew that drinking beer and eating snacks at night and then sleeping immediately was a disaster for stomach health, but I had overlooked this until I was diagnosed with a stomach ulcer. As expected, you only realize the importance of health after experiencing pain. Now, I try not to eat anything other than water after an early dinner.

 

There are also various habits necessary for gastric ulcers.

It is better not to overeat or binge eat, and you should avoid lying down immediately after eating. It is preferable to eat warm foods that are steamed or boiled rather than raw foods.

Foods that are good for improving gastric ulcers include potatoes (preventing gastric mucosal damage), radish (a versatile natural digestant), cabbage (a natural anti-ulcer food), broccoli (effective against Helicobacter pylori), and spinach (protecting the gastric mucosa).

I am still under management, and the more I pay attention and take care of it, the more my inner peace improves day by day, which feels rewarding.

Finally, I would like to conclude by introducing a mild digestive aid that I take occasionally when I experience indigestion due to gastric ulcers.

It's the famous Japanese antacid Cabagin, which has a somewhat strange smell but I think it's a very gentle medicine. It is made from cabbage ingredients and is effective for stomach ulcers and various gastrointestinal diseases. Being gentle doesn't mean it lacks effectiveness. When you have a stomach ache or feel bloated, taking two tablets quickly makes your stomach feel comfortable. You know that cabbage is especially good for the stomach, right? I especially recommend it to people with stomach ulcers.

I hope everyone takes good care of their health to prevent illnesses in advance. I wish you won't have to suffer like I did after being diagnosed. Stay healthy!