A peptic ulcer is an open sore located in the mucous membranes of the stomach or duodenum. These ulcers are known as peptic ulcers because the lining of the stomach and duodenum contains hydrochloric acid and pepcid, acids that make it difficult for sores to heal. Ulcers can be caused by many different things including bacteria, lifestyle factors and certain medications.
Stress
Physicians once believed that emotional stress was the primary cause of gastric ulcer formation. While this is no longer considered true, emotional stress may increase the pain of ulcers in patients who already have them. Additionally, physical stress, such as burns or a major surgical procedure, may increase the risk of ulcer development.
Types
The most common factor that plays a role in precipitating gastric ulcer disease is infection with a bacteria known as helicobacter pylori. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this infection is present in 80 percent of gastric ulcers. Helicobacter pylori weakens the protective lining of the stomach and allows the acid present in the stomach to damage this lining. Medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are often used for pain may interfere with the protective effect of the stomach lining and make the development of ulcers more likely.
Considerations
Although lifestyle factors such as smoking and caffeine intake do not directly cause ulcer formation, these factors do affect ulcer healing and pain. According to MayoClinic.com, nicotine increases the concentration of stomach acid in the gastric lining, which increases the risk of ulcer formation and slows the healing process. Caffeine may make it more difficult for ulcers to heal. Alcohol can aggravate the lining of the stomach and interfere with the healing of an ulcer.
Prevention
Preventing infection with Helicobacter pylori is difficult because it is spread from person to person. Since it is spread through contact with saliva or fecal matter, hand washing and good sanitation practices help to reduce transmission. While many people have this infection, it typically does not result in gastric ulcer disease. Avoiding NSAIDs and smoking as well as limiting caffeine and alcohol intake may reduce the chance of the development of gastric ulcers.
Treatment
The primary treatment for gastric ulcer disease is elimination of Helicobacter pylori infection. Antibiotics are used to treat this infection, and then a test can be performed to ensure that the bacteria has been eradicated. Additionally, a medication known as a histamine blocker is used to reduce stomach acid, allow the ulcer to heal and decrease the pain associated with the ulcer. Medications called cytoprotective agents that help protect the stomach lining are also used to promote healing.
