Hi all

I'm looking for some help/advice about my possible stomach ulcer.

I've been low carbing for 20 months now, and was feeling great on this WOE up til 2 months ago. I was going through a particularly stressful time at work (I have now left) and started getting intermittent stomach pain/soreness usually on an empty stomach.

I finally went to see the Dr in early December and she diagnosed a possible stomach ulcer (duodenal maybe). She put me on Lansoprazole, which I have been taking for nearly four weeks. I went back after 2 weeks and had a blood test for Helicobacter pylori and also a blood count. I have another appointment to see her on Monday morning for the test results.

However, since I last saw the Dr, over Christmas, despite taking the lansoprazole daily, I have had a nasty flareup with the pain and soreness, and I have woken twice in the early morning with bad stomach soreness. I have been taking additional antacids to help, and have now started to eat smaller meals more often - every 2-3 hours to help with the soreness.

Now, my questions are as follows:

1) I was under the impression that low carb diets (with restricted sugar and grains intake, etc) was supposed to help suppress H pylori. After over 1 1/2 years of low carbing, how come I have succumbed??

2) My pharmacist was surprised that I needed extra antacids on top of Lansoprazole. She thought that would be sufficient to control the acid production and pain. For the first three weeks I was taking this AFTER breakfast, then discovered it was recommended to be taken on an empty stomach. Could it be simply that I wasn't taking it properly?

3) What will a Blood Count show on a low carb diet? Should I be prepared for "unusual" results and a possible challenge from my Dr on my "unhealthy high fat/protein diet"?

Sorry this is quite long and involved. I wanted to get all the details down so any of you knowledgeable people could give me your opinions.

TIA

Katy