Peptic ulcers

An ulcer is a hole that forms when the lining of the gut is corroded by acidic digestive juices. Ulcers can form in the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers), duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) or the esophagus (swallowing tube).

Risk Factors

While stomach acid plays a significant role in the development of ulcers, other factors may be involved, including infection with a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, smoking, and the long-term use of certain anti-inflammatory medicines.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an ulcer are variable, but may include upper abdominal burning or hunger pain 1-3 hours after meals and in the middle of the night. In some cases, serious complications can occur like bleeding or perforation (erosion of the ulcer right through the gut wall).

Most ulcers are effectively healed with treatment. Treatments for ulcers include:

• Antacids neutralize existing acid in the stomach.
• Acid suppressants like H₂-antagonists and proton-pump inhibitors (in combination with antibiotics if H. pylori infection is involved, which is in more than 90% of cases).

Treatment

There is no conclusive evidence that dietary restriction and bland diets play a role in ulcer healing. No proven relationship exists between ulcers and the intake of coffee and alcohol. However, as coffee stimulates acid secretion, and alcohol can cause gastritis, moderation in alcohol and coffee consumption is often recommended for patients with ulcers.