Question:
How long does it take to recover from an ulcer!

I am 4 1/2 weeks post-op and my surgeon highly suspects an ulcer. The pain is pretty much like a long, nagging hunger pain (TIMES 10)and sometimes even a burning stabbing pain. I also have nausea and diarrhea, rather I eat or not, but most importantly, I've had these symptoms for the past two weeks. I was prescribe Prevacid and some other medicine for diarrhea, but so far it hasn't kicked in although I just started taking it last night. My question is how long does it take for the meds to kick in, but also is there a typical period of "flare up" time. I'm trying to get an idea if this is something that last for only a few weeks, or possibly months. I haven't felt this yucky since I had morning sickness! Has anyone experienced this problem. I've already checked the previous Q&P post regarding this, but no specific answers. BPD/DS 10/24/01 - lost 22 lbs.    — Kimberly D. (posted on December 1, 2001)

December 1, 2001
well, how long it takes to recover from an ulcer varies. I got the news that I had one when I was 9 months post op and had been dealing with the pain and naseua that you are dealing with for months. So mine is still acting up on a very regular basis and I am 13 months post now (four months of treatment). The good news is that WHEN the meds kick in (it can take up to 3 weeks depending on the meds) You will feel better. I wish you the best!
   — [Anonymous]

December 1, 2001
I'm on Prevacid again. It is most effective taken on an empty stomach, early in the morning. Prior to wls, I was on two prevacid/day. Good luck.
   — Barbara B.

December 1, 2001
If it's been 2 weeks and nothing has changed, you might ask to switch to Prilosec or one of the other brands. I've had ulcers since the 70's, of one kind or another, and some things that work for "Fred" don't touch me at all, or vice versa. Since my surgery (1994), all these new drugs have come out and my personal choice is Purple Gold (have you priced it?) Prilosec. That works every time, within about 48 hours, I feel a change. Prevacid never touched me. I wondered if I was putting it in my ear, as my symptoms only got worse. Also, because of your malabsorption, you may need to take a higher dose. I used four of the 40mg Prilosec to bring my acid under control when I had SLD. But before that, three 20's did fine.
   — vitalady

December 1, 2001
I was diagnosed with multiple ulcers 2 months ago after an upper endoscopy. From the first dose of Protonix, I have felt great.
   — Leah B.