Peptic ulcers are defined by the occurrence of open sores in the inner lining of the stomach, the first segment of the small intestine, or at the esophagus. These ulcers develop when a special lining of the digestive tract known as mucus becomes thin and stomach acid eats into otherwise healthy tissue. Keep reading to know all about peptic ulcer causes, symptoms and treatments.
Causes of Peptic Ulcers
The major precursors to the development of peptic ulcers are infections with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and the long-term use of over-the-counter drugs including aspirin and ibuprofen as pain relievers.
- H. pylori Infection: This spiral-shaped bacterium can become a part of the flavon-lined coating that covers the lining of the stomach and small intestine. It also synthesizes enzymes and toxins that dissolve the mucus layer of the lining of the stomach meaning that the lining becomes vulnerable to being damaged by stomach acid. A child is likely to get infected with H. pylori but can live with the infection all his/her life without knowing it.
- NSAIDs: This category of drugs interferes with the stomach’s equivalent of the skin, the gastric mucosa that secrete substances that protect the stomach from corrosive acid. They reduce synthesis of prostaglandin, substances which are involved in preservation of the protective gastric mucosa. The best gastroenterologists recommend taking NSAIDs to relieve symptoms of peptic ulcers but you should follow the dosage instructions carefully to prevent side effects.
Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers
The earliest sign of a peptic ulcer is the characterizing epigastric discomfort that people describe as hunger pains, however, it tends to be a burning or gnawing discomfort located in the stomach area. This discomfort may range from moderate to severe and may therefore come as a temporary relief when food is consumed or when antacids are ingested but it resurfaces as the stomach is emptied. Other symptoms include:
- Bloating and belching
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
The main laboratory findings included dark, tarry stools caused by a bleed occurring in the gastrointestinal tract.
In severe cases, peptic ulcers can lead to complications such as bleeding, perforation (a hole in the wall of the stomach or intestine), and gastric outlet obstruction (blockage of the passage from the stomach to the small intestine).
Treatment
Peptic ulcers may be treated with medicines which reduce stomach acid, protect the lining of the stomach, and eliminate H. pylori if present. These medications may include:
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid production.
- H2-receptor antagonists: Decrease acid production.
- Antacids: Neutralize existing stomach acid.
- Antibiotics: Used to eradicate H. pylori infection.
- Cytoprotective agents: Protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine.
Conclusion:
Peptic ulcers can be a painful and potentially serious condition. To manage this condition you must talk to an expert medical doctor at once. It is recommended to visit the best Gastroenterologist in Rawalpindi for the treatment of peptic ulcers to help reduce your symptoms with prompt treatment.
