Essentials for Healthy Eyes
Peptic ulcers are sores in the stomach or small intestine. They can occur at any age, but the risk increases with increasing age. Usually they are painful, but in some cases, they may not cause much discomfort or pain. There are two types of peptic ulcers: Gastric ulcers that are formed in the stomach lining and Duodenal ulcers caused at the beginning of the small intestine.
Why do you get peptic ulcers?
The stomach and the intestines are covered by a layer of mucus. This protects the lining of the organs from being affected by the digestive acids. Due various causes, this mucus layer can become thin which will allow the acids to reach the stomach and intestine lining. Over a period of time the acids will corrode the lining and cause sores.
Some ulcers may get better on their own, but if the cause of ulcers is not remedied, they will return. If they do not become better, then they can lead to formation of holes in the lining which can lead to infection.
Symptoms of peptic ulcers
- Burning pain between the breastbone and navel that decreases when you eat, but returns often between meals for days or weeks
- Bloated or full feeling
- Burping
- Nausea/ vomiting
- Weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Black or bloody stools
What are the causes of peptic ulcers?
Peptic ulcers can be caused by a bacterial infection that is harmless in most people, but can lead to an increased secretion of stomach acids in others.
Certain pain medicines, including aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) when taken too often for long periods of time can lead to ulcers.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can cause peptic ulcers.
What are the treatments available for peptic ulcers?
Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, changing pain relievers or stopping taking them, antacids to neutralize the acid in the stomach, medicines to reduce the production of stomach acids, medicines to protect the stomach and intestinal lining and surgery to repair perforated or bleeding ulcers are the options available to treat peptic ulcers.
Your treatment will depend on the cause of the ulcer.
How to prevent peptic ulcers?
Avoid taking pain killers and NSAIDs
If they have been prescribed for you as treatment for a medical condition:
Try to limit intake to the lowest possible dosage
Never take them on empty stomach
Don’t drink alcohol
Take medicines to reduce stomach acid
Take medicines to increase the protective mucus layer in the stomach
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
Manage stress
Avoid fatty, spicy and acidic foods that irritate your stomach
Have probiotics
Prevent infections by maintaining proper hygiene
If you have any of the symptoms of ulcer, do not ignore them. With prompt and timely treatment, we can completely cure them and with the right preventive care we can prevent their recurrence. Consult our expert gastroenterologist for the best care for all digestive tract problems
Related posts
