Question 1

What is Gastric Ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Gastric ulcers are open sores that develop in the stomach lining due to damage from digestive acids. They are caused by Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection, overuse of NSAIDs, or excessive stomach acid production from elevated gastrin hormone levels. The Gastrin blood test is the most important test for identifying hormonal causes of gastric ulcers.

Question 2

What causes gastric ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Gastric ulcers are caused by three primary factors that damage the stomach lining. The most common cause is infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which weakens the protective mucus layer of the stomach. Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen can also erode the stomach lining and trigger ulcer formation. Additionally, conditions that cause excessive gastrin hormone production, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, lead to overproduction of stomach acid that damages stomach tissue.

Question 3

What is the best test for gastric ulcers?

Accepted Answer

The Gastrin blood test is the most important test for identifying hormonal causes of gastric ulcers because it measures levels of gastrin, the hormone responsible for stimulating stomach acid production. Elevated gastrin levels indicate conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or other disorders causing excessive acid that contributes to ulcer formation. While gastric ulcers are primarily diagnosed through endoscopy or imaging studies, the Gastrin test helps healthcare providers understand whether hormonal imbalances are driving the condition and guides targeted treatment strategies. Testing for H. pylori infection through blood tests, breath tests, or stool samples is also essential since this bacteria causes the majority of gastric ulcers.

Question 4

When should I get tested for gastric ulcers?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience burning stomach pain that comes and goes, especially between meals or at night, or if antacids temporarily relieve your discomfort. Consider testing if you have unexplained weight loss, persistent nausea or vomiting, blood in your stool or dark tarry stools, or if you take NSAIDs regularly and develop stomach pain. Getting tested is especially important if you have a family history of stomach problems or if you experience severe, sudden abdominal pain that could indicate a perforated ulcer requiring emergency care.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of gastric ulcers?

Accepted Answer

The most common symptom of gastric ulcers is a burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen that typically occurs between meals or during the night when the stomach is empty. Other symptoms include bloating, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, dark or bloody stools, unexplained weight loss, and feeling full quickly when eating. Some people with gastric ulcers experience no symptoms at all, while others may have severe pain that temporarily improves after eating or taking antacids.

Question 6

Who is at risk for gastric ulcers?

Accepted Answer

People who regularly take NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen are at increased risk for developing gastric ulcers. Those infected with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which is more common in areas with poor sanitation, face higher risk. Other risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, chronic stress, being over age 50, and having a family history of ulcers. People with conditions that cause excessive stomach acid production, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, are also at elevated risk.

Question 7

What happens if gastric ulcers are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated gastric ulcers can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications. The ulcer can perforate or create a hole in the stomach wall, allowing stomach contents to leak into the abdominal cavity and cause peritonitis, a medical emergency. Ulcers can cause internal bleeding that leads to anemia or severe blood loss requiring hospitalization. Chronic ulcers can also cause gastric outlet obstruction, where scar tissue blocks the passage of food from the stomach to the small intestine, resulting in severe vomiting and weight loss.

Question 8

Can gastric ulcers be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot directly diagnose gastric ulcers, but they play an important role in identifying underlying causes and complications. The Gastrin blood test measures hormone levels that stimulate stomach acid production and can reveal conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome that contribute to ulcer formation. Blood tests can also detect H. pylori antibodies indicating infection with the bacteria that causes most ulcers, and complete blood counts can identify anemia from bleeding ulcers. The definitive diagnosis of gastric ulcers requires endoscopy or imaging studies to visualize the stomach lining.

Question 9

How are gastric ulcers treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for gastric ulcers depends on the underlying cause. If H. pylori bacteria is present, antibiotics combined with acid-reducing medications eliminate the infection and allow healing. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-receptor blockers reduce stomach acid production to promote ulcer healing. If NSAIDs caused the ulcer, stopping these medications or switching to alternatives is essential. For ulcers caused by excessive gastrin production, medications to control acid secretion or surgery may be necessary. Most ulcers heal within 4-8 weeks with proper treatment.

Question 10

How can I prevent gastric ulcers?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce your risk of gastric ulcers by limiting or avoiding NSAIDs and taking them with food when necessary. Practicing good hygiene helps prevent H. pylori infection, which spreads through contaminated food and water. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as both increase stomach acid production and damage the stomach lining. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and adequate sleep also helps protect your digestive system. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding foods that trigger stomach discomfort can help maintain a healthy stomach lining.

Question 11

What can I do at home for gastric ulcers?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies should complement rather than replace medical treatment, several strategies can help manage ulcer symptoms. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming your stomach, and choose bland foods that are easier to digest like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Probiotics from yogurt or supplements may help restore healthy gut bacteria and support healing. Avoid trigger foods like spicy dishes, citrus, caffeine, and alcohol that increase stomach acid. Managing stress through meditation, deep breathing, or gentle exercise like walking can reduce acid production and promote healing.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Gastric Ulcer Blood Test

What is Gastric Ulcers?

What causes gastric ulcers?

What is the best test for gastric ulcers?

When should I get tested for gastric ulcers?

References

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