Peptic ulcer is a catchall term for sores that affect the digestive tract. According to MayoClinic.com, approximately 10 percent of all Americans will deal with a stomach ulcer at some point in their lives. Development of an ulcer requires lifestyle changes that include proper diet and exercise. Stomach crunches help to tighten the abdominal muscles, but they may cause further complications with an ulcer. Your doctor can determine if stomach crunches are appropriate for you as your ulcer heals.
Ulcers
Ulcers are lesions, or sores, that develop in the lining of the digestive tract. A gastric ulcer forms in the stomach; a duodenal ulcer forms in the upper part of the small intestine; and an esophageal ulcer is in the tube between your stomach and mouth. For many years, scientists thought stress and spicy foods were the culprits in ulcer development. Modern research proves ulcer formation is due to infection from helicobacter pylori bacteria. These organisms live in the stomach naturally. When a break forms in the lining along the tract, the bacteria invade the area and an ulcer forms.
Stomach Crunches
Stomach crunches are a staple exercise for the abdomen. The mechanism of stomach crunches will put stress on the digestive tract. Depending on the location of your ulcer, this stress can cause irritation and possibly bleeding. For example, if you have an esophageal ulcer, the pressure from a crunch will force acid into the tube and damage the area further. Exercise can help with ulcer healing, but only your doctor will know if crunches are right for you. If the doctor gives you the okay to perform crunches, wait 2 or 3 hours after eating. This will reduce the amount of acid in your stomach while you exercise and minimize damage.
Exercise
Controlling acid reflux is a big part of healing an ulcer, and exercise can help, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. More than likely, your doctor will advise you to forgo stomach crunches while the ulcer heals, to avoid complications such as bleeding. However, other forms of exercise might be beneficial, such as walking. Ask your doctor about your exercise routines. The location of the ulcer will dictate the proper plan and what exercises are best for you.
Considerations
Further irritation to the ulcer will only increase the healing time. If you do stomach crunches against the advice of your doctor, you are likely to make matters worse. Bleeding ulcers can cause anemia, peritonitis and chronic ulceration. If bowel movements produce a tarry-looking stool, this may indicate internal bleeding. Other symptoms to watch for include fever, vomiting of blood and unexplained weight loss.
