Stomach ulcers

 

A stomach ulcer or peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of stomach or the first part of small intestine (duodenum).

 

 

Common symptoms are:

1. Burning sensation in the chest/ upper abdomen

2. Stomach ulcers can cause pain. The pain may,

a) Start between meals or during the night

b) Briefly stop if you eat or take antacids

c) Last for minutes to hours

d) Comes and goes for several days or weeks

 

 

Stomach ulcers occurs when the acids that helps to digest food, damages the walls of the stomach or duodenum. Common causes are:

1. Infection with a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori

2. Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen. 

3. Stress and spicy foods do not cause ulcers, but can make them worse.

 

 

1. Your doctor may recommend you to go for a blood, breath, and stool test done.

2. You may also be recommended to get an endoscopy or x-ray done. It will allow the doctor to look inside the stomach and duodenum.

 

 

Peptic ulcers will get worse if not treated. Treatment may include:

1. Medications to reduce stomach acids or antibiotics to kill H. pylori

2. In case the ulcers do not heal, you may need a surgery

Note: Antacids and milk can't heal peptic ulcers

 

Preventive measures:

1. Do not smoke and drink.

2. Avoid spicy foods, they may worsen stomach ulcer.