So my doc tells me I have an ulcer. He diagnosed it with a pinprick blood test. He says that Scientists and Doctors and Experts have Discovered a Bacterium that causes ulcers. (He actually talks in capital letters and generic terms like that too, it’s kind of fun listening to him, like he’s a newscaster.)
So anyway, I’ve had ulcers on and off for more than ten years now. I figure I’ll try something new for this pain in my gut. He perscribes me something called PrevPac. I’m totally fine with it until I get home and open the box…I have to take 8 pills a day! Gaahhhh…
Sure it’ll help my ulcer. It’ll help it grow…
I’ve heard of this bacteria ulcer thingy. Did he say how effective the treatment is? I’d choke 'em all down. I had a neighbor who almost bled to death from an undiagnosed ulcer. Very scary. Hope you’re feeling better!
Hmmmmm…
Last week, after several years of procrastination, I finally had a colonoscopy & upper GI exam. I was told that a biopsy was taken as part of the upper GI, supposedly to check my iron absorption (I’ve been having some problems with anemia). Yesterday my doctor called to tell me that the biopsy revealed the presence of H. Pylori bacteria and although I did not have an ulcer yet he prescribed what he described as “a two-week series of antibiotics & Prevacid” just to be on the safe side. The pharmacy called me later in the day to inform me that they were out of stock but it would be ready for me to pick up today after 4pm.
8 pills a day? I’m lucky I remember to take my iron pills & vitamins. This should be interesting…
I think that’s what I have. Supposedly there’s a follow-up regimen for after the first two weeks, but my insurance won’t cover that.
I think this is the result of some study my mother participated in. According to her, the discovery of the H.Pylori bacteria being the cause of ulcers is a total miracle. She suffered from ulcers most of her adult life until they found this out. She’s ulcer free now after participating in the trials of this protocol or something very much like it.
At the time, the doc told her that the H. Pylori bacteria has something to do with cats. shrug Unfortunately, take that for what it’s worth, because I can’t be arsed to find a cite. I just wanted to say good luck to Subway Prophet, and I hope you feel better soon!
Well, I’ve got your 8 pills a day beat, Subway Prophet. Instead of the PrevPac my doctor put me on Helidac Therapy. probably because I’ve had an allergic reaction to penicillin in the past. Four pills four times a day. Since I don’t have an ulcer, I think the some of the medication may be superfluous, but I guess it’s easier to prescribe the whole package instead of just the antibiotics.
And according to the instructions, I can’t take my iron supplements while I’m taking this. But I suppose a little temporary anemia is better than getting an ulcer later.
Ack! And here I was feeling sorry for me.
But I do that anyway. 
So you were perscribed the package because you tested positive for the bacterium?
That’s right. I’ve never shown any symptoms for ulcers. The upper & lower GI tests were done only because I’m 53 and at that age they start recommending that you get your plumbing checked out for polyps and other possible problems.