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Peptic Ulcer

A peptic ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum), or sometimes the lower esophagus. It occurs when the protective mucous lining of these areas is damaged, allowing stomach acid and digestive enzymes to irritate the tissue.

A peptic ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum), or sometimes the lower esophagus. It occurs when the protective mucous lining of these areas is damaged, allowing stomach acid and digestive enzymes to irritate the tissue.

Types of Peptic Ulcers:

  1. Gastric Ulcer: Occurs in the stomach.
  2. Duodenal Ulcer: Occurs in the duodenum (first part of the small intestine).
  3. Esophageal Ulcer: Occurs in the lower part of the esophagus.

Common Causes:

  1. H. pylori infection: A bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori is a major cause of ulcers.
  2. NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin can damage the stomach lining.
  3. Excessive Stomach Acid Production: Stress, certain foods, or a condition like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can increase acid production.
  4. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor diet can aggravate or contribute to ulcers.

Symptoms:

  • Burning or gnawing pain in the stomach (often worse on an empty stomach or at night)
  • Bloating
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite or weight loss
  • Dark or tarry stools (a sign of bleeding ulcers)

Complications:

If left untreated, peptic ulcers can cause:

  1. Internal Bleeding: Leading to anemia or severe blood loss.
  2. Perforation: A hole in the stomach or intestinal lining, which is a medical emergency.
  3. Obstruction: Swelling or scarring can block food passage.

Treatment:

  1. Medications:
    • Antibiotics: To eradicate H. pylori.
    • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid.
    • H2 Receptor Blockers: Decrease acid production.
    • Antacids: Neutralize stomach acid.
    • Protective Agents: Like sucralfate to shield the stomach lining.
  2. Lifestyle Changes:
    • Avoid NSAIDs, smoking, and alcohol.
    • Eat a balanced diet and avoid spicy or acidic foods that irritate the stomach.
  3. Surgery (in severe cases): If an ulcer leads to perforation, bleeding, or obstruction.

If you suspect you have a peptic ulcer, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Tests like endoscopy or tests for H. pylori may be needed.

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