Erosion in the gastric or stomach lining is referred to as peptic ulcer disease (PUD). It is a common disease that affects approximately 10 percent of the U.S. population. Risk factors increase the likelihood of acquiring the disease and associated symptoms. Some risk factors are avoidable, such as medications, while others are not, like aging. Risk factors increase suspicion when physicians are considering diagnosis and management of disease.
Chronic Use of NSAIDS
Over-the-counter medications are easily accessible without a prescription. NSAIDS, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, include conventionally used drugs for pain relief. Mayo Clinic lists a variety of commonly used drugs: ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen are a few. They are excellent pain relievers and inflammation reducers. However, used in large doses on a regular basis, over-the-counter medications can cause damage to the mucus barrier of the stomach. Subsequently, this causes direct chemical injury to gastric tissue.
The result is an ulceration or sore located on the inner-lining of the stomach's wall. Subjected to the acidic environment of the stomach, the lining enters into a vicious cycle of inflammation causing abdominal pain and other symptoms. If left untreated, ulcerations of the stomach can progress and cause serious complications including bleeding.
Aging
Increasing incidence of peptic ulcer disease occurs with age. Morbidity and mortality rates also increase. Jones and Hawkey, in Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology, attribute increasing incidence of PUD to the physiological changes associated with age. Loss of inherent mucosal protection and repair occur as a part of the normal aging process. Additionally, the mucosa of the lower region of the stomach, the pyloric fundus, migrates upward. This increases risk for damage to the duodenal surface. Moreover, aging patients are more likely to use ulcerogenic medications such as anti-coagulants, steroids and aspirin that increase risk for damage to the stomach's lining. Repetitive use of medications and large doses are risks for developing peptic ulcers.
Stress
Extreme stress to the body helps to aggravate peptic ulcer disease. Stress can increase acid production, delay healing and gastric motility. Stress-induced peptic ulcer disease is associated with trauma, chronic illness or severe burn injury. Stress is a constant concern in patients in the intensive care setting. Physicians typically initiate prophylactic treatment of patients as a preventive measure under these circumstances.
Habits
Mayo Clinic indicates smoking as an important risk factor for peptic ulcer disease. Nicotine delays the healing process, causes direct harm to epithelial tissue and increases concentration as well the amount of acid in the stomach. Excessive alcohol also causes direct injury to gastric cells. Alcoholics may present with more severe symptoms of vomiting blood, hypotension and anemia. Avoiding these substances and immediate medical attention can improve symptoms.
