Talking to Your Healthcare Provider About Peptic Ulcer Disease

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with peptic ulcer disease. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Here are some tips that will make it easier to talk to your doctor:

• Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to give more details.
• Write down your questions so you do not forget them.
• Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing.
• Ask for help if you need it. Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

• What might have caused my peptic ulcer?
• How might I have come into contact with H. pylori?
• Should I take steps to prevent those who live with me from getting H. pylori?

• Could my ulcer come back? If so, how will I know?
• What can I do to lower my risk of getting a peptic ulcer?
• What can I do to lower my risk of it coming back?
• I use a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Is there anything I can do to lower my risk of getting a peptic ulcer?

• Will I need an antibiotic?
• What other medicines will I need?
• Will I need surgery?

• Should I stop smoking? Are there programs that can help me stop?
• Should I stop drinking alcohol?

• What is the chance the ulcer will cause a health problem?
• What is the chance that my ulcer will come back?
• What is the chance that I could get gastric cancer?

Revision Information

• Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
• Update Date: 05/04/2022