What are Peptic Ulcers?
An ulcer is a sore, which means it’s an open, painful wound. Peptic ulcers are ulcers that form in the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. An ulcer in the stomach is called a gastric ulcer and an ulcer in the duodenum is called a duodenal ulcer. Both a gastric ulcer and a duodenal ulcer result when H. pylori or a drug weakens the protective mucous coating of the stomach and duodenum, allowing acid to get through to the sensitive lining beneath. Both the acid and the bacteria can irritate the lining and cause an ulcer to form. H. pylori infection is usually contracted in childhood, perhaps through food, water, or close contact with an infected individual. Infections are more common in adults older than age 60 and in developing countries. And most people with H. pylori don’t display any symptoms until they’re older. In fact, they may go through life unaware that they’re infected. Although H. pylori infection usually doesn’t cause problems in childhood,
An ulcer is a sore or erosion that forms when the lining of the gut is corroded by acidic digestive juices. Peptic Ulcers can form in the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers), duodenum (the first part of the small bowel or intestine) or the oesophagus (gullet or swallowing tube). Peptic ulcers are quite common; it is known that 5-10% of the world’s population suffer from peptic ulcers at least once. HOW DO YOU GET PEPTIC ULCERS? While stomach acid plays a significant role in the development of ulcers, other factors may be involved, including infection with a bacterium called Helicobacter Pylori, smoking, and the long-term use of certain anti-inflammatory (pain killing) medicines. These do this by irritating or damaging the lining of the stomach. HOW SERIOUS ARE PEPTIC ULCERS? Symptoms of an ulcer are variable, but may include upper abdominal burning or hunger pain 1-3 hours after meals and in the middle of the night. In some cases, serious complications can occur like bleeding or per
Peptic ulcers are small sores which develop in the acidic regions of the digestive tract. While you most often hear the term “stomach ulcers” in reference to peptic ulcers, ulcers can also develop in the esophagus, duodenum, and the Meckel’s Diverticulum. These open sores can be extremely painful, leading to intense discomfort and sometimes medical complications for the people who suffer from them. This medical condition is also extremely common worldwide, with people in a wide range of environments, cultures, and societies suffering from peptic ulcers. Historically, people believed that peptic ulcers were related to stress and diet. In fact, most peptic ulcers are actually caused by bacteria which weaken the mucus lining of the intestinal tract, allowing the harsh gastric acids in the stomach to damage the delicate underlying lining. Peptic ulcers can be exacerbated by things like aspirin, acidic foods, tobacco, and alcohol, but they can appear in people of any age and lifestyle, from
