Stomach Ulcer Disease – Treat it before it eats into you!

 

Stomach ulcer disease, otherwise known as peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is an affliction in which holes or lesions form on the lining of the stomach, small intestine or esophagus. The sores are due to an imbalance in stomach acid, with too much acid irritating the lining which can cause a burning sensation. Common symptoms of stomach ulcer disease include abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea and vomiting, and loss of appetite.

The most common cause of stomach ulcer disease is the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which can be present due to poor hygiene and long-term consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. Other factors contribute to the development of stomach ulcers, including overeating, smoking and drinking heavily, and certain medications.

Stomach ulcer disease is typically treated with a combination of antibiotics and antacids, as well as lifestyle changes such as avoiding foods that can irritate the stomach and reducing the amount of alcohol and smoking. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended in order to repair the damaged tissue. Diet and lifestyle changes alone may be effective in maintaining remission, though regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important. Well, in this read we will help you to know about it in detail!

What is stomach ulcer?

A stomach ulcer is a sore that develops within the lining of the stomach. It is also known as a gastric ulcer or peptic ulcer. The ulcer is due to the breaking down of the stomach lining, which is normally protected against digestive juices by a layer of mucus. Without this protective layer and the normal balance of stomach acidity, bacteria and digestive juices can break down the stomach lining, resulting in inflammation and a painful ulcer.

What are the symptoms of stomach ulcer?

Common symptoms of stomach ulcers include a burning or gnawing pain in the abdominal area that is worse when the stomach is empty, nausea and vomiting, bloating, excessive belching, loss of appetite, and weight loss. In some cases, individuals may also experience dark or tarry-looking stools.

Severe cases may cause individuals to vomit blood or have bloody or black stools, which is an indication that the ulcer has eroded through the wall of the intestines. If this is the case, immediate medical attention is necessary. Other symptoms such as skin rashes, fatigue, and extreme thirstiness may also occur, although they are less common.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of stomach ulcers is key to preventing complications and allowing for faster healing.

What are the causes of stomach ulcer?

The most common causes of stomach ulcers include infections with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), long-term use of certain medications (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, steroids, and some cancer medications), and excessive alcohol consumption.

H. pylori is a bacterium that lives in the stomach and duodenum. Infection with H. pylori can cause inflammation or erosion of the stomach's protective mucus layer, which can lead to tissue damage and the formation of ulcers.

The use of certain medications, including ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, steroids, and certain cancer medications, for long periods of time can interfere with the protective mucus layer of the stomach, causing irritation and ulcer formation.

Excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to stomach ulcers. Alcohol can irritate the stomach's lining and can lead to the formation of ulcers. Additionally, alcohol affects the body's ability to heal and can prevent the repair of existing ulcers.

In some cases, stress, smoking, and spicy foods can contribute to the development of stomach ulcers, although their role is not clear.

What are the diagnosing techniques for stomach ulcer?

Common diagnostic techniques for stomach ulcers include the following:

1. Blood Tests:

Blood tests can detect infections like the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which is a major cause of stomach ulcers. These may also be in use to check for signs of inflammation associated with an ulcer.

2. Endoscopy:

This type of test involves a thin, lighted tube with a camera on the end that is in use to examine the inside of the stomach and small intestine. An endoscopy can help to detect ulcers, identify any signs of bleeding, and take samples of tissue for further testing.

3. X-ray:

An X-ray may be ordered to detect the presence of ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. This test may also be in use to detect any complications or obstructions resulting from an ulcer.

4. Stool Tests:

Stool tests are in use to detect blood in the stool, which may occur as a result of an ulcer.

5. Gastric Analysis:

This type of test involves examining a sample of the stomach acid for signs of infection.

6. Breath Tests:

A breath test may be in use to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach.

While these tests can help to identify a stomach ulcer, further testing may be necessary to determine the cause of an ulcer. Treatment for a stomach ulcer typically involves a combination of antibiotics and lifestyle changes.

What are the treatment options for stomach ulcer?

In many cases, the cause of a stomach ulcer is the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Treatment options for stomach ulcers depend on the cause.

1. Antibiotics:

If the ulcer takes place due to H. pylori, the recommended treatment is antibiotic therapy to kill the bacteria. In addition, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as Prilosec and Nexium, might be prescribed to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

2. Lifestyle Changes:

Making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, eating smaller meals, and stress reduction, is helpful in managing ulcers.

3. Dietary Changes:

Certain foods, such as fried and spicy foods, might cause or exacerbate ulcers and should be avoided. Instead, include more vegetables, fruit, and whole grains in your diet.

4. Surgery:

In severe cases, surgery may be in need to treat a stomach ulcer. Surgery can treat complications such as bleeding or blockage of the stomach.

5. Over-the-Counter or Prescription Medications:

Over-the-counter drugs, such as bismuth subsalicylate, sucralfate, and antacids, can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with ulcers. Prescription medications, such as Zantac, Tagamet, and Pepcid, also can help reduce the production of stomach acid.

If you have a stomach ulcer, it is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options. The best way to prevent and treat gastric ulcers is to follow a healthy lifestyle and practice stress reduction techniques.

Visit Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain for the treatment!

Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain is a renowned and experienced gastroenterologist in Jaipur, Rajasthan. He has specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the digestive system. Dr. Jain is well-versed in providing medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment for disorders of the stomach, intestines, liver, and gallbladder.

He practices evidence-based medicine and is committed to providing the most suitable therapeutic options to all his patients. He has a wide patient base from all across India, who visit him for specialized treatment and management of gastrointestinal diseases.

Dr. Jain is a compassionate doctor who strives to provide quality treatment and care for every patient. He provides personalized healthcare services to all his patients. He offers a wide array of services including endoscopy, laparoscopic surgery, diagnosis, treatment of colon and rectal disorders, and treatment for acid reflux.