- (713) 497-1143
- info@shayagiclinic.com
- Willowbrook, Tomball, Cypress
Expert Care to Heal Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers and Prevent Complications
A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach (a gastric ulcer) or the first part of the small intestine (a duodenal ulcer). Ulcers form when the protective lining is worn down and exposed to stomach acid.
The two main causes are H. pylori infection and long-term use of NSAID pain relievers such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and stress can make ulcers worse. Contrary to old beliefs, spicy food does not cause ulcers.
The most common symptom is burning upper-abdominal pain, often between meals or at night, along with bloating, nausea, and feeling full quickly. Seek emergency care for vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, or sudden severe abdominal pain, which can signal bleeding or a perforation.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, diet, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Diagnostic evaluation may include:
Comprehensive Medical History
Understanding symptom patterns often provides valuable clues.
Blood Testing
Laboratory studies may help identify:
H. pylori Testing
Testing may be recommended when stomach-related symptoms are present.
SIBO Breath Testing
Used to evaluate bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine.
Colonoscopy
May be recommended depending on age, symptoms, family history, and risk factors.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Can help evaluate reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and upper digestive tract disorders.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
The two main causes are H. pylori infection and long-term use of NSAID pain relievers. Smoking and alcohol can make them worse.
No. Stress and spicy food do not cause ulcers, though they can worsen symptoms. The real causes are usually H. pylori or NSAIDs.
Untreated ulcers can bleed or, rarely, perforate the stomach wall, which is a medical emergency. Most ulcers heal well when treated early.
Treatment usually combines acid-reducing medication with antibiotics if H. pylori is present, plus stopping NSAIDs.
Usually yes. An upper endoscopy lets your doctor see and biopsy the ulcer and test for H. pylori.
Yes, if the cause is not treated. Eliminating H. pylori and avoiding NSAIDs greatly lowers the chance of recurrence.
Treatment focuses on healing the ulcer and removing its cause. After diagnosis, your gastroenterologist builds a plan that may include:
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” for peptic ulcers, and most heal well with treatment. Seek urgent care for black stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we focus on healing and preventing recurrence. To protect your stomach:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
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