What is a Duodenal Ulcer?
A duodenal ulcer is a raw area or open sore (ulcer) that develops when there is a break in the lining of the duodenum, the upper part of the small intestine which is connected to the stomach. When food passes from your mouth, it moves through the esophagus and into your stomach. From the stomach, it travels into the duodenum. The duodenum produces chemicals and mucus, which protects the tissues and covers the surface from the acid. If the acid damages this protection by breaking through the lining of the duodenum, an ulcer occurs. Men tend to be affected more frequently by duodenum ulcers than women. It is also more common in people with a family history of duodenal ulcers.
Related Questions
- Does Seropositivity for Helicobacter pylori Antibodies Increase Outpatient Costs for Gastric and Duodenal Ulcer or Inflammation?
- Is there a relationship between gastric acid secretion and plasma catecholamines in duodenal ulcer disease?
- Where can I get more information regarding Alu-Tab (Aluminum Hydroxide)?
