Stomach Ulcers

Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. They are a type of peptic ulcer disease, which also includes duodenal ulcers (ulcers in the first part of the small intestine) and esophageal ulcers (ulcers in the esophagus).

Causes

Stomach ulcers are usually caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria: This is the most common cause of stomach ulcers. H. pylori bacteria can infect the stomach lining and cause inflammation, which can lead to ulcer formation.
• Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of ulcers.
• Excessive acid production: The stomach produces acid to help digest food. Excessive acid production can lead to ulcer formation.
• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can increase the production of stomach acid and worsen existing ulcers.
• Diet: A diet high in spicy, fatty, or acidic foods can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of ulcers.

Symptoms

The symptoms of stomach ulcers may include:

• Burning pain in the upper abdomen: This is the most common symptom of stomach ulcers. The pain may be worse at night or when the stomach is empty.
• Bloating and discomfort: Some people with stomach ulcers may experience bloating, discomfort, or a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen.
• Nausea and vomiting: In some cases, stomach ulcers can cause nausea and vomiting, especially after eating.
• Loss of appetite: Stomach ulcers can cause a decrease in appetite due to pain or discomfort when eating.
• Weight loss: Untreated stomach ulcers can lead to weight loss due to decreased appetite and difficulty digesting food.
• Bleeding: In severe cases, stomach ulcers can cause bleeding, which may lead to black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or anemia.

Diagnosis

To diagnose stomach ulcers, a doctor may use the following tests:

• Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to visualize the stomach lining and check for 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 with H. pylori bacteria.
• Stool tests: To check for blood in the stool or H. pylori infection.

Treatments

The treatment of stomach ulcers depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Antibiotics: To treat H. pylori infection, which is usually treated with a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medications.
• Acid-reducing medications: Such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine-2 (H2) blockers to reduce stomach acid production.
• Antacids: To neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief from symptoms.
• Protective medications: Such as sucralfate or misoprostol to protect the stomach lining and promote healing.
• Lifestyle changes: Avoiding spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, managing stress, and quitting smoking can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a perforated ulcer or remove a bleeding ulcer.

Complications

If left untreated, stomach ulcers can lead to complications such as:

• Bleeding: Which can lead to anemia, shock, or even death.
• Perforation: A hole in the stomach wall that can lead to peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal cavity) and sepsis.
• Obstruction: Scarring from ulcers can cause narrowing of the stomach or small intestine, leading to bowel obstruction.
• Cancer: Long-term infection with H. pylori bacteria increases the risk of developing stomach cancer.

Prevention

To prevent stomach ulcers, it is recommended to:

• Avoid NSAIDs or use them with caution
• Eat a balanced diet
• Manage stress
• Quit smoking
• Get tested for H. pylori infection if symptoms persist