A DIAGNOSIS OF A STOMACH ULCER

A stomach ulcer, known as a peptic ulcer, is a hole or sore that develops in the lining of the stomach or at the beginning of the small intestine, the duodenum. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25 million Americans will experience a peptic ulcer during their lifetime, no matter what age or gender.

CAUSES

 

Peptic ulcers are most often caused by a bacterium named Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori. These bacteria are found living harmlessly in the mucous layers lining the stomach and small intestine. However, H. pylori can cause disruption and inflammation in the lining and create an ulcer. The Mayo Clinic reports H. pylori may be also contracted through food and water or by close person-to-person contact. 

Regular use of pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and ketoprofen can also be a cause for ulcers by irritating the lining of the stomach and small intestine. These medications inhibit the production of an enzyme that protects the lining of the stomach from chemical and physical injury, thereby leaving the stomach and small intestine susceptible to acid damage and erosion.

An uncommon cause is Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare disease in which the body produces too much stomach acid.

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OTHER RISK FACTORS

 

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption increase stomach acid production and may raise the risk for developing an ulcer. Additionally, these factors, along with stress and physical trauma, can aggravate and delay the healing of an existing ulcer, according to the Mayo Clinic.

SYMPTOMS

 

According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, peptic ulcer pain may be felt anywhere between the navel and breastbone and may: start between meals or during the night, stop if eating antacids, last from minutes to hours or come and go for several days or weeks. Other symptoms include: weight loss, bloating, burping, nausea, vomiting and poor appetite. Extreme symptoms that require immediate medical attention include sudden sharp stomach pains, black or bloody stools, coffee ground-like or bloody vomit.

COMPLICATIONS

 

If left untreated, peptic ulcers may lead to internal bleeding. Blood loss may be minor or severe leading to anemia, hospitalization and blood transfusions. A peptic ulcer can also create a hole in the wall of the stomach or small intestine, thereby increasing risk of infection. Scar tissue may also result from a neglected ulcer, which can cause obstruction, vomiting and weight loss.

TREATMENT

 

Treatment for a peptic ulcer depends on the source but usually entails killing H. pylori with antibiotics or ceasing the use of NSAIDs. Other medications used to treat ulcers may include proton pump inhibitors or histamine receptor blockers to reduce stomach acid and bismuth subsalicylate to coat and protect the ulcers. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that surgery may be indicated if medications are not effective or complications become serious or life-threatening.

PREVENTION

 

To prevent H. pylori infection, wash hands with soap and water before eating and after using the bathroom, clean and cook food properly and drink water from a clean and safe source. To prevent ulcers from NSAIDs, stop using or lower the dose of NSAIDs if approved by a physician. If you are unable to stop taking them, take them with a meal or seek medical advice on using different medicines that will not cause ulcers. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol will also reduce ulcer risks.