How is an Ulcer diagnosed?

Introduction: Why Ulcers Require a Root-Cause Approach

Peptic ulcers are more than just stomach pain—they’re a sign your digestive system is under chronic stress. At Patients Medical in NYC, we don’t just suppress symptoms with acid blockers. Our integrative medical team investigates the root causes of ulcers using functional diagnostics, offering a natural path to long-term healing.

What Is a Peptic Ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is a sore or erosion in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus, usually caused by an imbalance between stomach acid and protective mucus.

Types of Ulcers:
  • Gastric Ulcers – Form in the stomach lining.
  • Duodenal Ulcers – Occur in the upper small intestine.
  • Esophageal Ulcers – Found in the lower esophagus, often due to acid reflux.

Symptoms of an Ulcer

What Causes Ulcers?

Functional medicine looks beyond acid levels to uncover why the lining of the GI tract is compromised. Common root causes include:

  • H. pylori infection – A common bacterial infection that damages stomach lining.
  • NSAID overuse – Long-term use of ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.
  • Chronic stress – Affects digestion and immune response.
  • Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) – Can mimic high acid symptoms.
  • Leaky gut syndrome – Causes inflammation that weakens mucosal lining.
  • Food sensitivities – Trigger irritation and immune reactions.
  • Toxin or heavy metal exposure – Disrupt gut health and repair.

Advanced Diagnostic Testing

We use precision testing unavailable in most clinics:

Upper GI endoscopy (EGD)

Stool antigen test for H. pylori

Urea breath test for H. pylori infection

Food sensitivity panels

Leaky gut & gut permeability tests

Stool microbiome analysis

Zonulin levels

Salivary cortisol to assess stress impact on the gut

Integrative Ulcer Healing Treatments

Targeted Antimicrobial Therapy

  • H. pylori Eradication: Matula tea, mastic gum, quadruple therapy when needed
  • Biofilm Disruptors: NAC, interfase plus for resistant cases

Gut Lining Repair

  • Demulcent Herbs: Slippery elm, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)
  • Nutrient IVs: Zinc carnosine, vitamin C, glutathione
  • Growth Factors: Colostrum, epidermal growth factor (EGF)

Stress & Lifestyle Support

  • Adaptogens: Rhodiola, ashwagandha for HPA axis regulation
  • Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Breathing exercises, auricular acupuncture

Acid Balance Restoration

  • Betaine HCl Testing: For low acid (a surprising ulcer cause)
  • Alkaline Water Protocol: pH 8.8 water inactivates pepsin

Real Patient Story: Healing Beyond Acid Blockers

Marry, age 46, came in with chronic stomach pain, bloating, and reliance on proton pump inhibitors. Testing revealed H. pylori, gut dysbiosis, and low stomach acid. His integrative plan included:

  • Herbal antimicrobial therapy
  • Probiotic rebalancing
  • Zinc and glutamine supplements
  • Meditation for stress support

Outcome: Within 10 weeks, Mark was off all medications, his pain resolved, and his gut markers normalized.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 Yes. Breath, stool, and symptom-based testing can reveal underlying causes, especially in early stages.

Yes—mild H. pylori cases often resolve with herbal protocols. We retest to confirm eradication.

Most patients notice relief in 1-2 weeks; full healing takes 4-8 weeks.

Chronic use may increase fracture risk and gut dysbiosis. We help patients taper safely.

 Yes, it may increase risk of nutrient malabsorption and rebound acid. We aim to wean you off safely.

 In many cases, yes—with diet, stress management, and natural therapies.

 Yes, we offer botanical and probiotic protocols when appropriate.

 Silent ulcers exist. Testing may still be needed for vague symptoms like fatigue or bloating.

We provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. Diagnostic tests may be covered.

Absolutely. Stress ulcers are well-documented in ICU patients—chronic stress has similar effects.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

Make an Appointment