A peptic ulcer is described as an open sore which form on the interior wall of the stomach. It can oftentimes develop in the small intestine as well.
What are the indications?
- Stomach pain that can radiate up to the neck or down the legs
- Night-time pain
- Pain arises after a few hours of eating
- Other uncommon symptoms include vomiting, appetite loss and indigestion
What are the possible causes?
An unhealthy lifestyle particularly a poor diet is believed to be the cause why peptic ulcer forms. Even though this is a contributing factor, it is not the main factor. The main cause is a form of bacteria called helicobacter pylori as well as regular, long-term use of anti-inflammatory medications.
It is hard to estimate the number of cases who suffer from stomach ulcer since they do not always trigger symptoms. Nevertheless, it is expected that some adults might be affected. Remember that an ulcer can form at any time but common among aged over 60.
Management of peptic ulcer
The management for a peptic ulcer is based on the exact cause. In case the ulcer is triggered by the H. pylori bacteria alone, a 2-week course of antibiotics is usually enough to clear up the infection.
In case the main cause is long-term use of NSAIDs, a course of proton pump inhibitors is prescribed for 1-2 months. These medications work by blocking the action of protein pumps that are partly responsible for producing stomach acid. The reduction in the stomach acid allows the ulcer to heal on its own without the irritation triggered by the excess acid.
If an individual does not respond to proton pump inhibitors, a course of H2-receptor antagonists is prescribed by the doctor. The long-term use of anti-inflammatory medications is reviewed with paracetamol as a possible alternative.
If both prolonged used of NSAIDs and H. pylori bacteria are responsible, a course of proton pump inhibitors are initially prescribed that is followed by antibiotics once the first course is finished.