What is Peptic Ulcer Disease?

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Peptic ulcer disease is a condition with an open sore or ulcer in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. The main symptom is burning pain in the upper part of the belly after meals. Other symptoms are heartburn, burping, bloating, and nausea. The symptoms of a peptic ulcer usually worsen over time. Peptic ulcers can lead to bleeding, a hole in the bowel (called a perforation), and other medical emergencies. These complications may cause symptoms that start suddenly.The treatment of peptic ulcer disease depends on the cause. Once the cause is recognized and treated, the outlook is usually good.

Risks

Peptic ulcer disease is more common in older people. Many cases are caused by an infection with a bacterial called Helicobacter pylori. Other causes of peptic ulcers are the use of anti-inflammatory medications (such as aspirin), and smoking. Other conditions and medications can cause peptic ulcer disease, but these are comparatively uncommon.

Symptoms

Typical symptoms include pain at the top of the belly, heartburn, indigestion (burping and bloating), and nausea. If the ulcer is bleeding, it might be possible to see fresh, red blood or old, black blood in the bowel movements. Bleeding may also be accompanied by tiredness and a lack of energy. If the ulcer causes a hole in the bowel, this can lead to sudden pain in the belly, fever, nausea and collapse. This is an uncommon complication of this condition.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a peptic ulcer, an endoscopy (a camera through the mouth to the stomach) is required. Other tests are done at the time of endoscopy which may determine the cause of the peptic ulcer. A Helicobacter pylori (bacteria) infection can be diagnosed by a urea breath test.

Treatment

Antibiotics are prescribed to treat ulcers caused by a bacterial infection. If the ulcer is caused by a medication, your doctor can advise you about the risks and benefits of taking this medication in the future. Some medications are also helpful in reducing symptoms by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. These are usually only required while the ulcer is healing. If the ulcer bleeds or causes a hole in the intestine, emergency surgery might be required. This is a rare complication

Prevention

Careful use of anti-inflammatory medicines (such as aspirin) is important in preventing peptic ulcers, especially in older people. Giving up or reducing smoking can be helpful in reducing symptoms and in preventing new ulcers.

Other names for Peptic Ulcer Disease

• stomach ulcer
• duodenal ulcer
• gastric ulcer
• gastroduodenal ulcer

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**What⁣ is Peptic Ulcer Disease?**



**What is​ a⁢ peptic ulcer?**



A⁤ peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of ⁣the stomach (gastric ulcer) or small intestine (duodenal ulcer). The most common cause is infection‍ with a bacterium called​ Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Other causes ⁤include certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, and ⁣excessive alcohol consumption.



**What are the symptoms of a peptic ulcer?**



Symptoms include:

– Abdominal pain

– Burning or gnawing sensation

– Bloating

– Nausea

– Vomiting

– Bloody or dark stools



**What are‌ the complications of a peptic ulcer?**



Peptic ulcers can cause serious complications, including:

– Bleeding

– Perforation (a hole in the stomach or small intestine)

– Obstruction (a blockage in⁢ the‍ stomach or small intestine)



**How is a peptic ulcer diagnosed?**



A peptic‍ ulcer is diagnosed with an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. This is a procedure in which a thin, lighted tube is inserted into the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.



**How is ‍a peptic ulcer‍ treated?**



Treatment depends ​on the severity of ‍the ulcer and the underlying cause. Treatment may include:

– ⁣Medication

– Surgery

– Lifestyle changes



**How can I prevent peptic ulcer disease?**



You can reduce your risk of developing a​ peptic ulcer by:

– Avoiding ⁢H. ‌pylori infection

– Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ⁢drugs ‍(NSAIDs) as directed

– Limiting alcohol consumption

– Eating a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber



**Conclusion**



Peptic ulcer disease is a common condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort. However, it⁣ is treatable and preventable. ​If you have any of the symptoms of ‍a peptic ulcer, see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.