New Health Guide
Peptic ulcer disease occurs in up to 10% of the world's adult population and leads to billions of dollars in treatment. A peptic ulcer is an erosion, a hole or a sore in the lining of the esophagus (esophageal ulcer), the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the duodenum (duodenal ulcer). These ulcers are the result of corrosion of the lining of the digestive tract caused by the acidity of the digestive juices.
Common Symptom of Peptic UlcerA common symptom of peptic ulcer is abdominal pain. This pain commonly occurs in the middle of the upper part of the abdomen, below the breastbone and above the navel. It feels like a gnawing or burning pain, which can spread to the back. The pain often comes after meals and is worse in the night or early morning, lasting from a few minutes to more than a few hours. It may be relieved by taking antacids or food, or by vomiting.
Peptic ulcers may also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and loss of appetite.
Sometimes, people can experience severe symptoms such as vomiting of blood, which indicates fast bleeding in the stomach from the ulcers. Bleeding ulcers may also manifest as black, tarry stools. Sometimes peptic ulcers are discovered only after they start bleeding. Immediate medical consultation is necessary when these symptoms occur.
Consult a doctor if your symptoms persist and worry you. Although OTC acid blockers and antacids relieve gnawing pain, relief is often short-lived.
H pylori is a type of bacteria that can cause peptic ulcers in some people. Many people from North America and Western Europe harbor this bacteria in their stomachs, which spread through water and food. These bacteria trigger acid production in the stomach, which causes irritation and corrosion of the lining, leading to inflammation. Treatment consists of eradication of H pylori from the stomach to avoid recurrences.
Some medications, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen increase the risk of peptic ulcers because they affect the stomach's protective layer. They can also reduce the stomach's blood flow and affect its ability to repair itself.
People who have family members with peptic ulcer have a greater risk of developing the disease.
Although stress does not necessarily lead to the development of peptic ulcers, people who have ulcers tend to experience worse symptoms when they are mentally stressed.
Medications used to treat peptic ulcers include:
A diet that is high in protein can help heal sores and repair tissues. However, non-meat protein sources are preferable to avoid stimulation of the digestive system. Dairy products must also be avoided because calcium increases the production of digestive acids and juices. Eat bland foods instead of spicy or oily foods to reduce stomach irritation.
Apples, onions, garlic, and cranberries are rich in flavonoids, which help reduce the growth of bacteria.
Instead of taking NSAIDs regularly, ask your doctor if you can take acetaminophen (Tylenol), which has less irritating effects on the stomach.
Quit smoking, which destroys the protective lining of your stomach, increases stomach acids, and increases your risk of developing ulcers.
Avoid excessive alcohol intake, which can irritate the stomach's mucous lining and cause inflammation, erosion and bleeding.
Stress can worsen the symptoms of peptic ulcer. Although stress is sometimes unavoidable, you can learn to cope by exercising, spending time with family and friends, or writing a daily journal.
