The cost of an ulcer test in Nigeria varies, typically ranging from as low as N7,000 to N40,000 depending on the type of test, location, and healthcare facility. Standard tests include H. pylori antibody tests and endoscopy, which are becoming more common in Nigeria. You’ll need to contact a local facility for accurate pricing information. 

The medical process for conducting an ulcer test is called endoscopy, and the cost in Nigeria largely depends on the hospital or clinic center you go to. The state in which you live is also a factor. But the most crucial determinant of the price is the type of endoscopy.  

In Nigeria today, upper and lower endoscopy are the two main types of ulcer tests that many hospitals carry out, with the former being the most affordable.  

In the rest of this article, you will learn the breakdown cost of going for an ulcer test in Nigerian hospitals, the process involved, the risk involved, and other relevant details you need to know as you attempt to go for testing.  

Cost Of Ulcer Test In Nigeria - The Breakdown 

It is easier to provide an exact cost with specific details. However, to give you a general idea, the price range for an ulcer test in Nigeria ranges from around N7,000 to N40,000.  

As mentioned earlier, the cost may vary significantly based on the type of test required. Standard ulcer tests include: 

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) antibody test: This blood test checks for antibodies against the H. pylori bacteria, which is associated with the development of ulcers. 

• Endoscopy: This procedure involves the insertion of a flexible tube with a camera into the digestive tract to visually inspect the stomach and small intestine.  

With this in mind, you can contact specific healthcare facilities, hospitals, or diagnostic laboratories in your area to inquire about the exact cost of the required ulcer test.  

Meanwhile, some Nigerian hospitals will instead ask you to purchase a hospital card to access ulcer diagnostics or treatment services.  

You will be presented with a family or individual card, which could cost between N8,000 and N15,000. With this card, you can proceed with consultation, testing, and medication for ulcer-related ailments.  

How Do Doctors Carry Out Ulcer Tests In Nigeria? 

A diagnostic imaging test will be ordered when you go to the doctor. Depending on the complaints of your symptoms, the test could be an Upper GI series (UGI) or Endoscopy (EGD) 

Upper GI series (UGI): This is a type of X-ray. The doctor will give you a chalky liquid to drink that increases the contrast on the X-ray, making certain features easier to see. In some hospitals, they call this the barium swallow because the chalky liquid you’ll be given contains barium. 

Endoscopy (EGD): With an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera at the end), the gastroenterologists will pass the tube through your mouth into the stomach. But this will happen after you’ve been given a mild sedative.  

The endoscope allows the doctor to see the stomach lining to diagnose a peptic ulcer. Tiny tissue samples will be taken (biopsy) and examined under a microscope. 

If a diagnostic imaging test reveals an ulcer, the patient will most likely have a test to see if H. pylori bacteria are present.  

Why Is Ulcer Test Expensive In Nigeria? 

When you take a comparative look at the general cost of ailment testing in hospitals in Nigeria today, you’ll notice that the average cost of an ulcer test isn’t on the high side. Depending on the hospital you go to, you may even get it for a lower price.  

However, across the country today, there are not too many gastroenterologists who do upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. This explains why the price for ulcer testing doesn’t come down.  

In his interview with a journalist, D.r Olusola Talabi, a consultant physician, also underscored the scarcity of professionals in Nigeria that specialize in ulcer testing, which explains why the cost of getting such a service can be expensive.  

Unfortunately, this doesn't rise to the occasion of the growing number of peptic ulcer cases in Nigeria over the last few years.  

This 2020 study in Port Harcourt shows a low diagnostic rate of peptic ulcer disease in the southern part of the country, with Antral gastric ulcers being more commonly seen with gastrointestinal bleeding at endoscopy.  

Where To Get Ulcer Test In Nigeria? 

To get an ulcer test in Nigeria, you can consider the following options: 

Hospitals 

Visit a general hospital or specialized gastrointestinal hospital in your area. These hospitals usually have diagnostic facilities and can conduct tests for ulcers. You may need to consult with a gastroenterologist or general physician who can guide you through the process. 

Private Clinics 

Numerous private clinics and medical centers across Nigeria offer diagnostic services, including ulcer tests. Look for well-established clinics in your locality and inquire about their diagnostic facilities. 

Diagnostic Laboratories  

Independent diagnostic laboratories, such as PathCare, Clina-Lancet Laboratories, Union Diagnostics and Purelife Pharmacy, are available in various cities, including Lagos. These laboratories provide a wide range of diagnostic tests, including tests for ulcers. You can contact them to inquire about their services and find a laboratory near you. 

Online Health Platforms 

Some online health platforms in Nigeria offer home sample collection services for diagnostic tests.they provide home sample collection and hospital plans for various tests, including ulcer tests. The problem with online health platforms is that you must ensure their reliability and accreditation before availing their services. 

Above all, I recommend you consult a healthcare professional who can assess your symptoms, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend appropriate tests.  

They can guide you on the most suitable options for getting an ulcer test in your specific location 

FAQs 

_{Which drug can cure ulcers permanently?} 

No drug can cure ulcers permanently. However, certain medications can help manage and treat ulcers effectively. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and promote healing. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment. 

What are the symptoms of ulcers in Nigeria? 

Common symptoms of ulcers include abdominal pain or discomfort, often described as burning or gnawing in nature. Other symptoms may include bloating, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and losing appetite. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of ulcers. 

What is the fastest way to cure a stomach ulcer? 

The fastest way to cure a stomach ulcer involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can reduce stomach acid production, while antibiotics may be prescribed for ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria. Additionally, avoiding irritants like smoking, alcohol, and certain foods can aid healing. I recommend you consult a healthcare professional for personalized treatment 

What is the best medicine for ulcers? 

The best medicine for ulcers depends on the specific type and underlying cause. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole and lansoprazole are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid production. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin are used for ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria. But a healthcare professional will give you a suitable medication for your condition upon consultation. 

Reference:

https://punchng.com/ulcer-never-heals-because-patients-cant-wait-to-complete-treatment-expert/?amp

https://www.cerbalancetafrica.ng/

https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/company/pathcare-nigeria

https://purelifepharmacy.ng/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7751553/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29999489/

https://www.annalsofhealthresearch.com/index.php/ahr/article/view/440

‍

‍