Peptic Ulcer Disease – TheTole Treatment & Herbal Approach
Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) refers to open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. These ulcers are commonly caused by H. pylori infection, long-term NSAID use, stress, or acid imbalance and can lead to pain, bleeding, or digestive discomfort.
Overview
- Peptic ulcers occur when the protective mucosal lining of the stomach or duodenum is weakened, allowing stomach acid to erode tissue.
- Common symptoms include burning or gnawing abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite, and, in severe cases, gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Risk factors include infection with Helicobacter pylori, prolonged use of NSAIDs, excessive alcohol, smoking, stress, and dietary irritants.
- From a TCM perspective, Peptic Ulcer Disease reflects Stomach Yin deficiency, Damp-Heat accumulation, and Liver Qi stagnation, leading to impaired digestion, inflammation, and abdominal discomfort.
TheTole Approach
Treatment Philosophy
- TheTole approach focuses on strengthening Stomach Yin, harmonising digestive function, clearing Damp-Heat, and regulating Liver Qi.
- Treatment aims to relieve pain, promote healing of the ulcer, improve digestion, and prevent recurrence.
Acupuncture
- Acupuncture is used to promote gastric mucosa healing, regulate Stomach Qi, harmonize Yin-Yang, and reduce Damp-Heat and stagnation.
- Treatment points are selected based on dominant symptoms such as burning pain, bloating, nausea, or heartburn.
Herbal Remedies
- Customized herbal formulations are designed to:
- Nourish Stomach Yin and support tissue repair
- Clear Damp-Heat and reduce inflammation
- Regulate Liver Qi to prevent digestive stagnation
- Promote overall gastric health and comfort
Herbal prescriptions are adjusted based on symptom severity, healing progress, and digestive response.
Lifestyle & Diet
- Lifestyle guidance emphasizes stress management, proper meal timing, and avoidance of irritants.
- Dietary recommendations include soft, easily digestible foods, reduced spicy, oily, or acidic foods, and moderation of alcohol and caffeine.
- Gentle movement and mindful eating support Stomach Qi and overall digestive health.
Treatment Process
- Consultation with Dato’ Tole to assess ulcer symptoms, lifestyle habits, and constitutional balance.
- Personalized acupuncture sessions to harmonize Stomach Qi, reduce inflammation, and support tissue repair.
- Custom herbal prescriptions refined over time based on response and symptom improvement.
- Ongoing follow-up to maintain digestive health and prevent recurrence of ulcers.
Home Care Tips
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stomach acid burden.
- Avoid NSAIDs, alcohol, and irritant foods unless prescribed by a doctor.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques or gentle exercises.
- Monitor for warning signs like severe pain, vomiting blood, or black stools.
Research & Evidence
- Peptic ulcer disease is widely recognized as caused by H. pylori infection, NSAID use, and acid imbalance.
- TCM strategies that nourish Stomach Yin, clear Damp-Heat, and regulate Liver Qi support ulcer healing, symptom relief, and digestive balance.
- Integrative therapy including acupuncture, herbal treatment, and lifestyle adjustment enhances recovery and prevents recurrence.
FAQs
Q: Can peptic ulcers be healed naturally?
A: Yes. With integrative therapy including acupuncture, herbal support, and lifestyle modification, many patients experience symptom relief and improved healing.
Q: Why do peptic ulcers cause burning pain?
A: Ulcers expose the stomach lining to acid, causing irritation and a burning sensation.
Q: Can TheTole’s approach prevent recurrence?
A: Yes. Harmonizing Stomach Yin, clearing Damp-Heat, and regulating Liver Qi helps maintain long-term gastric health.
