Ulcer

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 We Treat

Hidden Causes of Ulcers

1.H. pylori Infection

  • Testing: Stool antigen, breath test, endoscopic biopsy
  • Complications: Increases gastric cancer risk 6-fold if untreated

2.Gut Microbiome Imbalance

  • Dysbiosis reduces protective mucus production
  • Low Akkermansia levels impair gut barrier function

3.Medication Damage

  • NSAIDs inhibit COX-1 enzyme (protective prostaglandins)
  • PPIs may worsen long-term gut ecology

4. Stress Physiology

  • Chronic stress reduces blood flow to gastric mucosa
  • Cortisol surges increase acid production

Advanced Diagnostic Testing

We use precision testing unavailable in most clinics:

H. pylori Detection (stool PCR, breath test, GI-MAP)

Gut Barrier Assessment (zonulin, occludin antibodies)

Stomach Acid Analysis (Heidelberg pH test)

Micronutrient Testing (zinc, vitamin C, glutamine)

Stress Hormone Panels (4-point cortisol)

Integrative Ulcer 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

Case Study: John’s 10-Year Ulcer Resolution

John, 47, had recurrent duodenal ulcers despite PPIs. Testing revealed:

  • H. pylori strain resistant to standard antibiotics
  • Severe zinc deficiency (impairing healing)
  • High cortisol (AM: 22 mcg/dL)

Treatment Plan:

  1. Herbal antimicrobial rotation (berberine, oregano, bismuth)
  2. IV zinc/glutathione weekly
  3. Stress reduction protocol

Results:

  • Ulcer healed in 8 weeks (confirmed by endoscopy)
  • No recurrence in 2 years
  • Off all acid blockers

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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