Smoking and alcohol should be stopped as well, because they can delay healing. Medications are given to help protect the lining and allow faster healing. Most of these medications work by neutralizing stomach acid or preventing it from being made. If an infection with a bacteria called H. pylori is present, antibiotics are given. Surgery may be needed for severe ulcers that bleed, don't respond to medication, or cause a hole in the gut.
All medications have side effects, such as allergic reactions and stomach upset.
Other side effects depend on the medications used. The risks of surgery include bleeding, infection, and even death in rare cases. The results of untreated peptic ulcer disease are often more serious, however. If not treated, ulcers may become larger or begin to bleed. This can lead to very serious problems, including death.