PEPTIC ULCER

Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, lower esophagus, or small intestine (the duodenum), usually as a result of inflammation caused by the bacteria H. pylori, as well as from erosion from stomach acids. Peptic ulcers are a fairly common health problem.

There are three types of peptic ulcers:

  • Gastric ulcers: ulcers that develop inside the stomach.
  • Esophageal ulcers: ulcers that develop inside the esophagus.
  • Duodenal ulcers: ulcers that develop in the upper section of the small intestines, called the duodenum.

The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is burning abdominal pain that extends from the navel to the chest, which can range from mild to severe. In some cases, the pain may wake you up at night. Small peptic ulcers may not produce any symptoms in the early phases.

Other common signs of a peptic ulcer include:

  • Changes in appetite
  • Nausea
  • Bloody or dark stools (melena)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Indigestion
  • Vomiting
  • Chest pain

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis for peptic ulcer relies on a thorough history and physical exam as well as imaging tests. Two such tests that are available to diagnose a peptic ulcer are an upper endoscopy and upper gastrointestinal (GI) series.

 

TREATMENT

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the ulcer. If tests show that you have an H. pylori infection, your doctor will prescribe a combination of medication, which you will have to take for up to two weeks. The medications include antibiotics to help kill infections, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to help reduce stomach acid.

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