Can recurrent duodenitis be cured?

Hello doctor, 2 years ago, I had duodenitis and it was cured. But a few weeks ago, I had the same condition as the previous duodenitis. Therefore, I bought and took medicine but it did not go away, indigestion, belching, heartburn and constipation. Doctor, can I ask if I have duodenitis relapse? How can I cure this disease completely? Thank you!

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Doctor replied:

Hello!

Duodenitis is an inflammation of the mucosa of the first part of the small intestine, often closely related to gastritis, Helicobacter pylori infection or factors such as stress, long-term use of painkillers, and inappropriate diet.

The symptoms you describe: indigestion, belching, heartburn and constipation are common digestive disorders in chronic duodenitis or combined irritable bowel syndrome.

For effective treatment, the following factors must be combined:

- Determine the main cause by performing a gastroduodenoscopy if not done yet, to assess the level of inflammation and rule out ulcers; check for H. pylori by breath test or biopsy (Clo-test) to have a thorough treatment plan.

- Use the right medication at the right time. Specifically, acid-reducing drugs (such as pantoprazole, esomeprazole): take early in the morning, 30 minutes before meals; mucosal protective drugs (such as sucralfate, rebamipide): take away from meals. Note, if H. pylori is present, a 14-day antibacterial regimen is needed; probiotics or motility regulators can help improve digestion and constipation.

- Adjust your lifestyle and nutrition by eating light, easy-to-digest meals, dividing your meals into smaller portions, avoiding overeating; limit coffee, alcohol, spicy foods, fried foods with lots of oil; drink enough water, eat green vegetables, increase light exercise every day to improve constipation...

In addition, you must have long-term monitoring for chronic duodenitis; do not stop taking medication on your own when symptoms improve, and avoid unnecessary overuse of painkillers or antibiotics.

If the condition lasts for more than 6 weeks, with weight loss, bloody stools, severe vomiting or severe abdominal pain, you should see a gastroenterologist soon for a full assessment and to rule out more serious causes.

Friendly!

Dr. Nguyen Phuong Nam,

Department of Gastroenterology, Dong Nai General Hospital

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/alo--bac-si-oi/202505/viem-ta-trang-tai-phat-co-chua-duoc-khong-6090341/