How to Diagnose the Difference Between Acid Reflux & an Ulcer

Diagnosing the difference between acid reflux and an ulcer by oneself is difficult due to the variety of types of ulcers and their dissimilar symptoms, some of which are identical to the symptoms of acid reflux. Certain behaviors may assist in relieving your discomfort or pain. Your efforts can help in ascertaining whether or not you have an ulcer and can also lend to leading a more healthful life.

Instructions

• 1

  Monitor your diet before diagnosing yourself to see if you are merely experiencing symptoms of discomfort after eating specific foods. If your symptoms disappear when you eliminate those problem foods, then you may not need to do anything other than avoid those particular foods. However, if the symptoms return, you should further investigate their cause to be certain that you are not ignoring a more serious physical ailment.

• 2

  Write down on your calendar when you experience problems. Heartburn is often confused with acid reflux, and vice versa. If your discomfort is occurring every couple of days and you have already determined that there is no one specific food that is the culprit, then you may have acid reflux rather than just heartburn.

• 3

  Note where you are experiencing the pain each time. Ulcers more often cause pain in the stomach, below the sternum. Acid reflux affects the chest and throat areas. This is not always the case, but is one indicating factor in determining whether you have an ulcer or acid reflux. Heartburn is, however, one symptom of an esophageal ulcer, therefore only certain types of ulcers may be ruled out if your burning or pain is in the chest or throat only. Even if it is just acid reflux, it may still lead to an ulcer.

• 4

  Take antacids to relieve the foul, acidic taste and burning sensation. This may work whether you are experiencing acid reflux or even an ulcer. The effectiveness of antacids is not, therefore, an indicating factor in distinguishing these conditions. This is also the case with other over-the-counter medications you may find at your local drugstores.

• 5

  Avoid especially fatty or spicy foods and acidic fruits, as well as foods and drinks containing a lot of caffeine, in order to keep from bringing on acid reflux symptoms by way of your dietary behaviors. Monitoring your diet can prevent some acid reflux problems and even lessen the symptoms of an ulcer. Good foods to eat are vegetables that are high in fiber, and fruits that are not acidic such as apples or grapes. Whole grains are also good foods to aid in digestion and prevent heartburn or acid reflux problems. If eating tends to assist in the reduction of your discomfort, you are more likely to have an ulcer. If eating seems to cause your discomfort, you may have either an ulcer or an acid reflux problem.

• 6

  Contact a physician if you experience any consistent symptoms. These are signs of trouble and you need to get an official medical diagnosis.