Question 1

What is Peptic Ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. They are caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria infection, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or excessive stomach acid production stimulated by elevated histamine levels. The Histamine Plasma test is the most important test for assessing acid-related ulcer risk because it measures the chemical that directly triggers gastric acid secretion.

Question 2

What causes peptic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria infection, regular use of pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen (NSAIDs), and excessive stomach acid production. H. pylori bacteria weaken the protective mucus coating of your stomach and small intestine, allowing acid to damage the sensitive lining underneath. NSAIDs interfere with your stomach's ability to protect itself from acid, while elevated histamine levels trigger excess acid secretion that can erode the digestive tract lining over time.

Question 3

What is the best test for peptic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

The Histamine Plasma test is the most important blood test for peptic ulcers because it measures histamine levels that directly control how much stomach acid your body produces. Elevated histamine triggers excessive gastric acid secretion, which can damage your stomach lining and worsen existing ulcers. While peptic ulcers are typically diagnosed through endoscopy, the Histamine Plasma test helps identify whether your body's chemical signals are contributing to acid overproduction, allowing your doctor to address one of the root causes of ulcer formation and recurrence.

Question 4

When should I get tested for peptic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent burning stomach pain between meals or at night, especially pain that temporarily improves after eating or taking antacids. Get tested if you notice unexplained weight loss, dark or bloody stools, persistent nausea or vomiting, or if you regularly take NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin. Early testing is important because untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications like bleeding or perforation of the stomach wall.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of peptic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcer symptoms include burning stomach pain that feels worse when your stomach is empty, typically between meals or during the night. You might experience bloating, heartburn, nausea, intolerance to fatty foods, or feeling full after eating only small amounts. Some people notice dark or tarry stools indicating bleeding, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or unexplained weight loss. The pain often temporarily improves after eating food or taking antacids, which is a hallmark sign of peptic ulcers.

Question 6

Who is at risk for peptic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

People who regularly take NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen are at higher risk for peptic ulcers, especially when taken long-term or in high doses. You face increased risk if you have an H. pylori infection, drink alcohol regularly, smoke cigarettes, or are over age 50. People with high stress levels, those taking corticosteroids or blood thinners, and individuals with a family history of ulcers also have elevated risk. Having more than one risk factor significantly increases your chances of developing peptic ulcers.

Question 7

What happens if peptic ulcers are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated peptic ulcers can lead to serious complications including internal bleeding that causes anemia or requires blood transfusions. The ulcer can perforate through the stomach or intestinal wall, causing a life-threatening infection in your abdominal cavity called peritonitis. Ulcers can also create scar tissue that blocks the passage of food through your digestive tract, leading to severe nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Chronic untreated ulcers increase your risk of stomach cancer, making early detection and treatment essential.

Question 8

Can peptic ulcers be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcers cannot be directly diagnosed with blood tests alone and require endoscopy or imaging for definitive diagnosis. However, blood tests play an important supporting role by measuring factors that contribute to ulcer formation, such as histamine levels that control stomach acid production. Blood tests can also detect H. pylori antibodies indicating bacterial infection, check for anemia from bleeding ulcers, and assess inflammatory markers. The Histamine Plasma test specifically helps identify whether excessive acid production is contributing to your ulcer risk.

Question 9

How is a peptic ulcer treated?

Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcers are treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers that reduce stomach acid production, allowing the ulcer to heal. If H. pylori bacteria are present, your doctor will prescribe a combination of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. You will need to stop taking NSAIDs if they contributed to your ulcer, switching to alternative pain relievers like acetaminophen. Treatment typically lasts 4 to 8 weeks, and most ulcers heal completely with medication when you also avoid alcohol, smoking, and foods that trigger your symptoms.

Question 10

How can I prevent peptic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Prevent peptic ulcers by limiting or avoiding NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen, or taking them with food and the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed. Protect your stomach by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and quitting smoking, both of which increase stomach acid and interfere with healing. Manage stress through regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques. Eat regular meals, limit spicy and acidic foods that irritate your stomach, and practice good hygiene to reduce your risk of H. pylori infection.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with peptic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that support ulcer healing include eating foods rich in probiotics like yogurt and kefir, which help balance stomach bacteria and may inhibit H. pylori growth. Flavonoid-rich foods such as apples, berries, and green tea have protective effects on the stomach lining. Honey, particularly manuka honey, has antibacterial properties that may help fight H. pylori. Avoid foods that increase acid production like coffee, alcohol, chocolate, and spicy dishes. These natural approaches should complement, not replace, medical treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider.

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.

Peptic Ulcer Blood Test

What is Peptic Ulcers?

What causes peptic ulcers?

What is the best test for peptic ulcers?

When should I get tested for peptic ulcers?

References

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