1. The Story Behind the Belly Ache
Any open sore that has developed on the lining of the stomach, in the upper small intestine or within the esophagus, is considered a peptic ulcer; however, there are two basic types. Peptic ulcers that are caused by low acid levels are generally considered gastric ulcers, while those created due to high acid levels are called duodenal ulcers. While the causes of peptic ulcers can be hard to peg down, some contributing factors include drugs which contain aspirin, stress, poor eating habits, smoking and drinking.
2. Heartburn Again
Once in a while a person may have a peptic ulcer and suffer mild or even no symptoms at all; however, heartburn is by far the most common symptom. While occasional acid reflux happens to the best of us, if you have recurrent heartburn which begins a few hours after meals and is soothed by more eating, you have a classic ulcer symptom. Other less common symptoms may include lack of appetite, weight loss, pain while eating, nausea and vomiting.
3. Lights, Camera, Ulcer
The only sure fire way to be certain that your symptoms are caused by a peptic ulcer is through a gastroscopy. During a gastroscopy, your doctor will sedate you mildly and place an endoscope, or a thin tube with a camera, down your throat in order to view the condition of your esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Most often the doctor will simply view the ulcer and begin treatment; however, it is also common to take a small biopsy of your stomach tissue to help determine the cause of your peptic ulcer.
4. Putting Out the Flames
In addition to killing the bacteria which may have caused your ulcer, your doctor will also treat the infection caused by peptic ulcers. Most often doctors will prescribe an antibiotic treatment as well as antacids which are suitable to your particular ulcer to help coat the stomach and promote healing. Some temporary diet changes may limit spicy foods, citrus fruits, caffeine, tobacco and alcohol. If the doctor's orders are followed to the letter, it should take about 1 to 3 months for the ulcer to heal completely.
5. Let's not do That Again
There are a number of things that you can do to help prevent peptic ulcers in the future. First of all, you should limit as much as possible things which promote the development of ulcers, such as stress, tobacco and alcohol. Additionally, if you love spicy foods, try to take it easy. While you don't have to cut spicy foods from your diet completely, you shouldn't consume them on a daily basis.
