A stomach ulcer, also called a gastric ulcer, is an open sore on the inside surface of the stomach. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, about 10 percent of Americans have had an ulcer of the stomach or small intestine, which are collectively called peptic ulcers.
Symptoms
The main symptom of a stomach ulcer is a painful burning sensation. According to the Mayo Clinic, this pain can be felt anywhere between the breastbone and navel and can be intermittent in duration and intensity. Ulcer pain becomes stronger at night or on an empty stomach. Other symptoms that may be present include black stool, nausea, vomiting blood, appetite changes and weight loss.
Causes
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori causes most cases of stomach ulcers, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Helicobacter pylori irritates and weakens the lining of the stomach by burrowing into it. This causes small holes, which grow larger with further activity of the bacteria and the exposure of the damaged area to stomach acids. Another cause of stomach ulcers is the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, aych as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Treatment
Treatment is often centered around destroying the bacteria that causes most peptic ulcers. Antibiotics are used to kill Helicobacter pylori. Antacids can also be used for treatment to reduce the stomach acids that aggravate the ulcer. The most successful therapy for stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori combines two different antibiotics and an acid suppressor, according to Nemours Foundation. Stomach ulcers caused by the use of NSAIDS do not need antibiotic treatment. These are treated with acid suppressors alone or simply by ceasing use of the NSAID causing the ulcer.
Prevention
There is no way to definitively prevent ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori or to prevent an H pylori infection in the first place. Washing hands before eating, making sure all food is thoroughly cooked and not drinking water from unsafe sources may help a person avoid contracting the bacteria. Ulcers from NSAIDS may be prevented by using other types of pain medications or using a lower dose, if NSAIDS are necessary.
Complications
Most stomach ulcers are painful, but do not lead to other serious complications, but they sometimes do occur. Perforation occurs when the ulcer works itself through the entire lining of the stomach, creating a hole in the lining. Stomach ulcers may also cause bleeding, which can become apparent through blood vomited up or seen in the stool. Sometimes, an ulcer will obstruct the bottom of the stomach, preventing food from moving on to the intestines.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor: Ulcers: What You Can Do to Heal Your Ulcer
- Mayo Clinic: Peptic Ulcer
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: H. pylori and Peptic Ulcer
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I need to know about Peptic Ulcers
- Nemours Foundation Kids Health: Peptic Ulcers
