Gastric Ulcer

A gastric ulcer, also known as a stomach ulcer, is a sore or lesion that develops on the lining of the stomach. It is a type of peptic ulcer disease (PUD), which also includes duodenal ulcers.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection: A bacterial infection that can cause stomach inflammation and lead to the development of gastric ulcers.
• Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen, which can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of developing a gastric ulcer.
• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can increase the production of stomach acid, leading to the development of a gastric ulcer.
• Smoking: Smoking can reduce blood flow to the stomach lining, making it more susceptible to ulcers.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of developing a gastric ulcer.
• Family history: Having a family history of gastric ulcers or other digestive disorders may increase the risk of developing a gastric ulcer.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain: A burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, which may worsen with eating or improve with antacids or food.
• Bloating and discomfort: Feeling full or uncomfortable after eating, even if only a small amount of food is consumed.
• Nausea and vomiting: Feeling queasy or vomiting, especially after eating.
• Loss of appetite: Decreased interest in food due to pain or discomfort.
• Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss due to decreased appetite or difficulty eating.
• Bleeding: Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools (melena) may indicate a bleeding gastric ulcer.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a gastric ulcer typically involves:

• Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to visualize the stomach lining and identify any ulcers.
• Upper GI series: A barium swallow test that uses X-rays to visualize the upper digestive system, including the stomach.
• Blood tests: To check for anemia or infection, such as H. pylori.
• Stool tests: To check for blood in the stool or H. pylori infection.

Treatment

Treatment for gastric ulcers typically involves:

• Antibiotics: To treat H. pylori infections.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Medications that reduce stomach acid production, such as omeprazole or lansoprazole.
• H2 blockers: Medications that also reduce stomach acid production, such as ranitidine or famotidine.
• Antacids: Over-the-counter medications that neutralize stomach acid, such as Tums or Rolaids.
• Lifestyle changes: Avoiding NSAIDs, quitting smoking, reducing stress, and avoiding trigger foods.

Complications

If left untreated, gastric ulcers can lead to:

• Bleeding: Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools (melena).
• Perforation: A hole in the stomach wall that allows bacteria and food to leak into the abdominal cavity.
• Obstruction: Narrowing of the stomach outlet, which can block food from passing through.
• Cancer: Although rare, long-term H. pylori infection or chronic inflammation may increase the risk of developing stomach cancer.