Question:
I had developed an ulcer! Any advice on preventing them?

Well, yesterday's endoscopy was a success, I guess. Turns out I had developed an ulcer which had closed me up. I was at 2 centimeters; the doctor said it would have closed completely by today. He dilated it to 12 centimeters. So now I can eat but I have a monster sore throat from the procedure! He gave me a prescription to help prevent ulcers and said to take Pepcid 2x a day also. Anything else I can do to prevent getting them in the future? Advice please! Thanks, Ann    — [Deactivated Member] (posted on October 20, 1999)

October 20, 1999
HI! I have been where you are. I have had the scope 6 times. I also had an ulser. They gave me some awfull medicine which I took but the opening still closed up. But after the last time It finally stayed open! If it happens again dont worry eventually it will stay open. I was getting very depressed but it hasn't happened now for a couple of months so I think it finally fixed itself. Dont get discouraged and hang in there!!!!!!
   — jenae C.

October 20, 1999
Some of us are just that way. My husband had his early on and never had another. No aspirin, no erythromycin, no NSAIDS and some need to avoid caffeine or even all acids, such as decaf teas & coffee. I've taken a mega-dose of Zantac since surgery, but still have an active ulcer right now. Yes, at 5 yrs post-op. BUT I was the ulcer queen since I was very young,too. Our doctor treats an active ulcer for a distal with triple dose of Prilosec. Since it is timed release, we don't get the full beenfit of one pill.
   — vitalady