What are Peptic Ulcers?
Peptic ulcers develop in the lining of the stomach, lower esophagus, or small intestine. They are sores formed as a result of inflammation and are caused by the bacteria H. pylori. They also occur as a result of erosion from stomach acids.
An overproduction of stomach acid can cause digestive juices to penetrate the lining of the stomach and duodenum, creating peptic ulcers. They are very common, but may lead to severe medical conditions including gastric or intestinal perforation, gastric obstruction and upper GI hemorrhage if left untreated.
Types of Peptic Ulcers include:
- Gastric Ulcers that appears on the inside of the stomach
- Duodenal Ulcers that form on the upper part of the small intestine
What are the symptoms of Peptic Ulcers?
- A dull or burning stomach pain. The pain may be worse in between meals or after meals
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
- Nausea & Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Belching
If there is bleeding from the ulcers, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Vomiting blood. The vomit may appear black or red in colour
- Having dark blood in stools
- Feeling dizzy or faint
What causes Peptic Ulcers
Peptic Ulcers happen when acid in the digestive tract eats away at the inner surface of the stomach or small intestine. The digestive tract is typically coated in a protective mucousal layer. However, if the mucous layer decreases or the amount of acid increases, you may develop an ulcer.
Common causes of Peptic Ulcer include:
- Helicobacter pylori: This bacteria lives in the mucousal lining that coats the stomach and small intestines and often causes no problem. However, it can cause swelling and inflammation of the stomach's inner lining. When that happens, it may form an ulcer.
- Regular use of certain painkillers: Taking painkillers over time may irritate or inflame the lining of the stomach or small intestines.
What are the complications of Peptic Ulcers?
If left untreated, Peptic Ulcers may result in:
- Bleeding in the stomach or small intesting
- A hole in the stomach wall
- Blockage in the digestive tract
- Stomach cancer
How do you prevent Peptic Ulcers?
To help prevent peptic ulcers:
- Take care when using pain relievers: If you often use NSAIDs, it may increase your risk of peptic ulcer. Hence it is better to take steps to reduce your risk of stomach problems, such as having a meal with your pain reliever. Sometimes, if you need a NSAID, you may also need to take other medicines to help protect your stomach.
- Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of peptic ulcer, speak to your healthcare professional for help with quitting.
How are Peptic Ulcers diagnosed?
Barium Test
A barium test may be done to diagnose structural or functional problems with your upper gastrointestinal tract.
Endoscopy
An endoscopy may be done to examine your gastrointestinal tract.
