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Ulcers facts: Causes and Symptoms

stomachulcersymptoms-inwomenchildrenMajority of the Ulcers facts revolve around the most common kind of ulcer which is stomach ulcers, also referred to as Peptic ulcer. They are painful sores and are found on the stomach lining or in the small intestine. Stomach ulcers are easily cured but they can become severe if not treated properly.Causes  According to various facts, for years it was thought that stress was a major factor in the formation of ulcers. While severe stress experienced from medical illness may increase the risk of ulcer formation, common medication such as NSAIDs (Non – steroidal anti-inflammatory medications), the bacteria H. pylori and smoking are the major risk factors.
  1. Helicobacter is mostly acquired in childhood and is not common in developed nations as compared to those with less well – developed sanitary conditions. The bacterium causes ulcers by disrupting the protective mucous layer that lines the intestines. When the mucous layer is disrupted, it triggers the release of certain enzymes and toxins that injure the cells of the stomach or duodenum causing small sores. Once a small sore develops, the tissue becomes more vulnerable to damage from digestive juices and has the potential to develop into an ulcer.
  2. The most common NSAIDs are ibuprofen and aspirin. These types of drugs are taken to decrease inflammation. Inflammation is caused by a natural chemical in the body called prostaglandins. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the body’s production of prostaglandins. However, certain prostaglandins are important in protecting the stomach lining from the corrosive effects of stomach acid, as well as playing a role in maintaining the natural, healthy condition of the stomach lining. By disrupting the production of prostaglandins in the stomach, NSAIDs can cause ulcers and bleeding. Small doses of aspirin alone does not cause ulcers but higher doses and many other over-the-counter pain relievers can lead to ulcers, particularly at high doses and if used daily.
Also Read: How to Get Rid of a Canker Sore: Evidence-Based Remedies and TipsSymptomsSymptoms usually manifest as pain or burning in your mid to upper abdomen just below the centre of your chest. Common symptoms of gastric ulcers include weight loss, poor appetite, bloating, burping, vomiting, and sometimes even vomiting blood.Also Read: 12 Natural Remedies For Mouth UlcersTreatmentIf the stomach ulcer is diagnosed as being caused by the bacterium, antibiotics like H2 Blockers, Proton Pump Inhibitors and Over-the-counter Antacids, Cytoprotective Agents will be prescribed. Smoking, alcohol and any medication or food that can trigger symptoms should be avoided. Certain side effects like nausea, dizziness, headache and diarrhoea become apparent. These side effects are only temporary.Other important facts include that surgical treatment will be prescribed in the cases of the ulcer continuing to reappear, bleed or not getting healing. Seek treatment if you believe you could be suffering from ulcers and don’t attempt treatment through self-medication.Also Read: Why Is My Upper Stomach Bigger Than My Lower? Understanding Body CompositionDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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Stomach Ulcer: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Stomach ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach. These sores occur when the acid that generally aids in the digestion of the food attacks the tissue. The most common cause is a bacterial infection involving Helicobacter pylori but long-term use of nonprescription or prescription pain medication can also result in this condition. Know the stomach ulcer facts to avoid them!

stomach-ulcer

SOURCE

Barry Marshall, along with his research partner J. Robin Warren, found out the cause and effect between helicobacter pylori  bacterium infection and stomach ulcer and cancer. They discovered that the Helicobacter pylori bacterium is the cause of gastric disorders or stomach ulcers. Their finding proved false the previous medical record that said gastric disorder or ulcer is only caused by stress, spicy foods and excessive consumption of food or drinks that contain acid.

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a global problem with a lifetime risk of development ranging from 5% to 10%. Overall, there is a decrease in the incidence of PUD worldwide due to improved hygienic and sanitary conditions combined with effective treatment and judicious use of NSAIDs. Duodenal ulcers are four times more common than gastric ulcers. Also, duodenal ulcers are more common in men than in the woman.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Also Read: Food For Upset Stomach: A Research-Based Guide To Soothing Foods

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers

These are the most common symptoms that you should be aware of-

Diagnosing Stomach Ulcer

If you’re experiencing the above symptoms, visit your doctor at the earliest. One of the most essential stomach ulcer facts states that for diagnosing a stomach ulcer, your doctor may request an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or gastroscopy. Note that if your doctor has asked for a gastroscopy, you will need to fast for 12 hours before the procedure.

Peptic ulcer disease is a life-long condition and ulcers remain active with an unchanged potential for complications such as haemorrhage and perforation, in my practice, most patients experience recurrence of their peptic ulcer after discontinuation of the healing therapy.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D

Treating Stomach Ulcer

Treatment may vary depending on the cause of your ulcer. Most ulcers can be treated with a prescription from your doctor but in rare cases, surgery may be required.

If your stomach ulcer is the result of  H. pylori, you’ll need antibiotics. For mild-to-moderate stomach ulcers, your doctor will usually prescribe the following medications:

Protecting yourself from stomach ulcer is all about prevention and early action. By being aware of the risks and living a healthy lifestyle, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting this painful and dangerous condition.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

What to Avoid

When diagnosed with a stomach ulcer, you’ll do well to avoid the consumption of the following:

Acidic drinks: Coffee, carbonated beverages and citrus juices are all acidic and may aggravate the stomach. Since it’s the acidity that causes the problem, it won’t matter whether you use caffeinated versions of the drink or not, either. In such cases, it is advised to follow a diet with non-acidic juices or plain water.

Citrus: If citrus juices are too acidic for an ulcer diet, then the fruits themselves are definitely out. You’ll need to wait for the ulcer to clear up before you can enjoy your grapefruits, tomatoes, lemons and oranges!

Spicy foods: This one is more subjective, as it can be a harmful trigger for some and does not have much effect on others. Unless you’re willing to experiment, it’s best to be cautious and avoid the chillis, hot peppers and masala.

Fatty foods: Deep-fried, buttery, overly-processed or even a thick slab of meat, fat should be kept to a minimum when possible in a stomach ulcer diet. Fat can make your stomach produce more acid than usual.

Milk:  Milk’s ability to coat the tongue and throat is one of the reasons it’s able to combat spicy food, so it’s not unreasonable to think it can do something similar to the stomach. Drinking milk can cause short-term relief from stomach ulcer pain but is best left out of the diet in the long term. Remember: milk has more fat in it than most drinks, which means it can cause more acid production.

Smoking:  Another one from the common stomach ulcer facts is that smoking can promote acid production and further weaken the mucus lining. If you smoke, cut back or quit. Read more about the health effects of smoking.  

Alcohol:  Alcohol consumption  irritates and erodes the lining of the stomach and alcohol abuse on its own is considered a risk factor for developing an ulcer.

Also Read: 12 Natural Remedies For Mouth Ulcers

Prevention

Excess smoking, alcohol consumption and NSAID (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) use are all considered risk factors for developing a stomach ulcer. Standard lifestyle changes like cutting back on drinks or cigarettes or finding alternative pain relievers are best considered alongside an ulcer diet, which is one of the most common stomach ulcer facts. Common sense steps to prevent the spread of H. pylori can also be utilized, like washing your hands before handling food and cleaning fruits and vegetables.

Also Read: Diverticulitis Diet: Foods to Avoid for a Healthy Gut

Read More: 5 Causes of Recurring Stomach Pain

Disclaimer:  The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

 
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