Changes to lifestyle habits can help some people. These may be:
Not Smoking
Smoking causes inflammation and increases stomach acid. It also slows healing. Not smoking may ease symptoms.
Limiting Alcohol
Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining. This can worsen symptoms. Alcohol should be limited to 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women.
References
Lanas A, Chan FKL. Peptic ulcer disease. Lancet. 2017;390(10094):613-624.
Peptic ulcer disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/peptic-ulcer-disease. Accessed May 4, 2022.
Peptic ulcer disease. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/gastritis-and-peptic-ulcer-disease/peptic-ulcer-disease. Accessed May 4, 2022.
Peptic ulcers (stomach ulcers). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers/all-content. Accessed May 4, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
- Update Date: 05/04/2022