Peptic Ulcer Disease
Posted: Feb 27, 2024 | Written By: Boluwatife Koiki (RN)
A peptic ulcer is an open sore (wound) or raw area in the lining of the stomach or intestine. There are two types of peptic ulcers:
- Gastric ulcer: occurs in the stomach
- Duodenal ulcer: occurs in the first part of the small intestine
The most common cause of ulcers is infection of the stomach by bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H pylori). Most people with peptic ulcers have these bacteria living in their digestive tract. Yet, many people who have these bacteria in their stomach do not develop an ulcer.
Normally, the lining of the stomach and small intestines can protect itself against strong stomach acids. But if the lining breaks down, the result may be:
- Swollen and inflamed tissue (gastritis)
- An ulcer
The following factors raise your risk for peptic ulcers:
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Regular use of aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco
- Being very ill, such as being on a breathing machine
- Radiation treatment
- Stress
Some ulcers may not cause any symptoms and may heal without treatment. Some ulcers can cause serious bleeding. Abdominal pain (often in the upper mid-abdomen) is a common symptom. The pain can differ from person to person. Some people have no pain.
Pain commonly occurs:
- In the upper abdomen
- At night and wakes you up
- When you feel an empty stomach, often 1 to 3 hours after a meal
- Feeling of fullness and problems drinking as much fluid as usual
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloody or dark, tarry stools
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Vomiting, possibly bloody
- Weight loss
- Ongoing heartburn
Treatment for peptic ulcers depends on the cause. Usually treatment will involve killing the H. pylori bacteria if present, eliminating or reducing use of NSAIDs(Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)if possible, and helping your ulcer to heal with medications e.g antacids,omeprazole etc.
Prevention
Avoid diclofenac, aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and other Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDS). Take Paracetamol instead. If you must take such medicines, talk to your provider first.
Possible Complications
Complications may include:
- Severe blood loss
- Stomach cancer
- Perforation or hole of the stomach and intestines
Get medical help right away if you:
- Develop sudden, sharp abdominal pain
- Have a rigid, hard abdomen that is tender to touch
- Have symptoms of shock, such as fainting, excessive sweating, or confusion
- Vomit blood or have blood in your stool (especially if it is maroon or dark, tarry black)
