Stressful situations worsen their symptoms, possibly because the stomach produces more acid in response to stress. The usual tests used are either an endoscopy or a barium meal. These are usually done on an out-patient basis. After going without food, the patient is helped to swallow a slim flexible tube which enables the lining of the gullet, the stomach and duodenum to be seen. A barium meal is an x-ray which involves swallowing a tasteless, white liquid.
Ulcers show up as craters or pits in the lining of the stomach and duodenum.
About one-third of duodenal ulcers heal by themselves within a month. Dietary treatment used to be recommended for ulcers, but drug treatment is now so effective that the main dietary advice is simply to avoid foods which cause indigestion. These vary from patient to patient. A bland diet is not necessary but it is sensible to ensure regular meals. Combinations of drugs including antibiotics are used for one or two weeks to kill the germ.