Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are sores or eroded areas that form in the lining of the digestive tract.
They usually occur in the stomach (gastric ulcer) or in the
duodenum (duodenal ulcer), which is the first part of the small
intestine.
People with peptic ulcers can have a wide variety of symptoms
and signs, can be completely symptom-free or, much less commonly,
can develop potentially life-threatening complications such as
bleeding.
Signs and symptoms of ulcers include:
- pain / burning or discomfort (usually in the upper
abdomen)
- bloating
- an early sense of fullness with eating
- lack of appetite
- nausea
- vomiting
- bleeding, which is made apparent by blood in the stool, either
in noticeable or microscopic amounts (very brisk bleeding will
result in black and tarry stools that smell bad).
Smoking, alcohol, anti-inflammatory medication and aspirin
increase the risk of developing ulcers.
Psychological stress and dietary factors (once thought to be the
cause of ulcers) do not appear to have a major role in their
development. Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that is frequently
found in the stomach is a major cause of stomach ulcers. If this is
found you will be given a course of antibiotics.
Diagnosis is made by the history, examination and sometimes
blood tests. You may be asked to have a
gastroscopy to clarify the diagnosis and aid with
treatment.
Treatment consists of medication to reduce the amount of acid in
the stomach which aids in the healing of ulcers and avoidance of
things that cause ulcers in the first place.
For more information visit the American Gastroenterological Association
website.