Peptic Ulcer

A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine. Most peptic ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection from H. pylori or irritating medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

A peptic ulcer can also cause bleeding when the intestine lining or stomach bleed due to inflammation. Perforation may also happen that burns through the wall of the stomach and allow contents to leak out. A peptic ulcer can also cause scarring from ulcers that block flow through the stomach and duodenum.

The Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer

• Burning and gnawing pain in the middle or upper stomach
• Heartburn
• Bloating
• Vomiting
• Nausea

In severe cases of peptic ulcer, symptoms can include:

• Black stool due to bleeding
• Weight loss
• Persistent vomiting
• Severe pain in the mid to upper abdomen

Seek medical help right away if these symptoms persist for a week or two. Change your food choices if possible to avoid worsening.

The Risk Factors of Peptic Ulcer

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Oral corticosteroids and Biphosphonates
• Potassium chloride and chemotherapy drugs for cancer
• Health problems and infections
• Crohn’s disease

Other factors that may raise the risk are:

• Drinking alcohol
• Smoking
• Family history of peptic ulcer disease

How to Diagnose Peptic Ulcer?

• The doctor will assess your symptoms and health history. Health care providers may recommend the following tests:
• Endoscopy. For severe symptoms, endoscopy will help determine abnormalities through your throat and into your stomach.
• H. Pylori tests. It is a widely used method to determine peptic ulcers and other abnormalities. A breath test is the easiest way to discover H. pylori. Doctors may also require blood or stool test or take some samples during the upper endoscopy.
• Imaging tests. X-rays and CT scan helps in detecting ulcers.

Treatment for Peptic Ulcer

The typical treatment for peptic ulcers is acid reducers, Proton pump inhibitors, and H-2 blockers. Antibiotics are also permissible as it helps in killing bacteria and help treat H.pylori. The goal is to reduce and treat stomach acid to prevent worsening the condition. Follow the recommendations and complete the treatment to prevent other health conditions.

How to Prevent Peptic Ulcer?

Prevent Peptic Ulcers from forming by:

• Talk to your doctor about alternative medications instead of using NSAIDs to relieve pain. Note that Tylenol are better pain reliever than ibuprofen.
• Discuss protective measures with your doctor if you cannot stop using NSAIDs.
• Change your diet and choose healthy foods. Avoid choices that can trigger stomach acids.
• Drink alcohol in moderation and quit smoking.