Peptic Ulcer

Hole in the Wall of the Stomach or Intestine

Overview

Peptic Ulcer is a common health problem. It is usually formed as a result of wound in the wall of stomach or intestine caused by H.Pylori infection. There are three types of Peptic Ulcers:

Sometimes these ulcers deepen and lead to holes in the intestine or stomach which leads to spillage of gastric and intestinal juices in the abdomen. These juices are very toxic and patients get really sick.

Symptoms

Peptic Ulcers can usually cause mild to moderate symptoms such as heartburn and pain in the upper abdomen. Many patients with Peptic Ulcer might not experience any major symptom. Other symptoms can include:

Nausea and Vomiting

Fat Intolerance (Fatty Food Intolerance)

Weight Loss

Dark or Bloody Stools

Causes

Different factors can cause Peptic Ulcer but usually it occurs when acid in digestive tracts erodes the inner surface of stomach or intestine. This can cause bleeding as well. Most common causes of Peptic Ulcer can include:

Diagnosis

Peptic Ulcer’s diagnosis is based on the history and clinical examination of the patient. A surgeon may advise further tests to identify the best possible treatment. These tests can include:

X-Ray

CT Scan

Ultrasound

Endoscopy

Lab Tests for H.Pylori

When to See a Doctor

Perforated Peptic Ulcer is considered to be a surgical emergency which needs urgent diagnosis and treatment. One should immediately consult a doctor if any severe signs or symptoms occur.

Treatment

Treatment for perforated peptic ulcer includes urgent surgery to repair the perforation on an emergency basis. This surgery is commonly performed through laparoscopic technique. If not identified and treated timely, this perforation can be life threatening and the patient can end up in ICU.

Risks, Complications & Preventions

People who smoke, drink alcohol and consume spicy food may have a higher risk of getting peptic ulcer. Although these factors do not cause peptic ulcers but can make it worse and difficult to heal.

Untreated peptic ulcers can get worse over time and can result in or lead to serious complications like perforation, internal bleeding, gastric cancer and obstruction (Blockage in food passage).

Peptic Ulcer is quite common and is easily curable if treated timely. Generally, a good and healthy lifestyle such as not consuming alcohol, limiting pain killers intake, washing hands frequently and not smoking can prevent the occurrence of peptic ulcers.