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A peptic ulcer is an open sore or lesion that develops on the inner lining of the stomach, oesophagus, or duodenum. Peptic ulcer disease arises when there's a disruption in the balance between the stomach's protective mucus and its acidic enzymes. It's often triggered by an infection from the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterium or prolonged consumption of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Types of Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are categorised based on their location in the GIT and underlying causes. The two main kinds of peptic ulcers are:
Gastric Ulcers:
Found in the stomach lining, they arise from an imbalance between stomach acid and the protective mucous layer. Symptoms include burning sensations in the upper abdomen, nausea, occasional vomiting, and unexpected weight loss.
Duodenal Ulcers:
Located in the duodenum, the initial segment of the small intestine, these are more prevalent than gastric ulcers. Their hallmark is a burning abdominal pain, often alleviated by food or antacids.
What Are the Causes of Peptic Ulcer Disease?
The erosion or compromise of the mucosal barrier typically occurs due to a few main causes:
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H. pylori Bacteria: If not managed, this bacterium can harm the stomach's inner lining or duodenum, resulting in ulcers.
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Pain Relievers: Certain over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can interfere with the stomach's mucus layer, especially when taken in large amounts or over a long period. This includes drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
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Alcohol: Excessive intake harms the stomach lining and boosts acid levels, inducing ulcers.
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Other Causes: Genetics, stress, and conditions like Crohn's or liver disease elevate peptic ulcer risk.
What Are the Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers?
Depending on their location, peptic ulcers can have a range of symptoms. Some symptoms include:
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Common Symptoms: The hallmark of PUD is a burning or gnawing stomach pain, which can vary in intensity. This pain is often accompanied by fullness, bloating, frequent belching, and an aversion to fatty foods.
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Less Common Symptoms: In some cases, individuals might experience nausea, occasional vomiting, stools that are dark or have a bloody appearance and unexplained weight loss.
When to See a Doctor?
Gastric ulcer symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for regular indigestion. However, immediate medical attention is warranted if one experiences sharp, severe pain or notices bloody or dark tar-like stools or vomit resembling coffee grounds.
How Is Peptic Ulcer Disease Diagnosed?
There are several tests to diagnose peptic ulcer which include:
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Endoscopy - A miniature camera (endoscope) is passed down into the stomach and duodenum to inspect for ulcers visually.
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Urea breath test to detect the presence of H. pylori
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Blood tests to check for H. pylori antibodies (however, the test is not useful in differentiating between past and current infections)
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Stool antigen tests.
Treatment Options for Peptic Ulcer Disease
Treating peptic ulcers requires lifestyle changes, medications, and, in certain cases, medical procedures by a gastro-intestinal surgeon.
Medications include:
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Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and acid blockers reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces, promoting ulcer healing.
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Antacids to help neutralise stomach acid.
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Antibiotics: If there is an H. pylori infection present, the doctor will prescribe a combination of antibiotics, typically two or more, to eliminate the bacteria and help heal the ulcer.
How to Prevent Peptic Ulcers?
Various preventive measures can be taken to lower the chances of getting peptic ulcers. Here are some important strategies:
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H. pylori Prevention and Eradication: Practicing good hygiene and ensuring food safety can lower the chances of H. pylori infection. Following your doctor's prescribed antibiotic treatment is important to eliminate the bacteria and prevent future ulcers.
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Lifestyle and Home Remedies: Adopting certain habits can aid in managing PUD. It is recommended to switch to safer pain relievers, manage stress through relaxation techniques, quit smoking, and moderate alcohol intake.
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Regular Medical Check-ups: Regular visits to your doctor can help monitor your overall health and catch any potential issues early, including ulcers.
Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD), while common, requires careful attention and management. Recognising its symptoms early and seeking appropriate medical care at the best gastroenterology hospital in Bangalore can prevent complications and ensure a swift recovery.
FAQs
1. What is the most common cause of peptic ulcer disease?
A common cause of peptic ulcer is infection with H. pylori.
2. How is peptic ulcer disease treatment determined?
Whether treatment via antibiotics is needed or using H2 blockers to restrict stomach acid products depends on what caused the ulcer.
3. How to prevent peptic ulcer disease?
The following ways can help prevent peptic ulcer disease:
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Avoiding smoking
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Limiting your intake of NSAIDs
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Eating a healthy diet
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Getting regular exercise.
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