EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ULCER

 Stomach Ulcer or Peptic ulcer is a sore that develops in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract like the stomach, small intestine and oesophagus. 

Types

Gastric ulcer: This is the sore that develops in the lining of the stomach.
Duodenal ulcer: This develops in the lining of the upper part of the small intestine. 

Oesophageal ulcer: This develops in the wall of the oesophagus and it poses lesser threat to a person’s health.

Epidemiology 

Every year about 4 million people are diagnosed with Peptic ulcer in the world. 

As of 2022, researches show that about 10% of the world’s population has Peptic ulcer.

About 100 thousand cases of Peptic ulcer are reported in Nigeria yearly.


Causes

Infection with bacterium helicobacter pylori

Long term use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen (advil) and naproxen sodium (aleve).

Symptoms

Heartburn

Nausea 

Bloating 

Belching

Indigestion 

Pain in chest and stomach regions

.       Loss of appetite

Severe symptoms

Vomiting of blood

Dark stool

Difficulties in breathing

Unexplainable weight loss

Complications 

Internal area from site of ulcer which can lead to blood loss, thereby causing ANEMIA.

PERFORATED ULCER: The ulcer can eventually create a hole in the wall of GIT. Thus exposes the abdominal cavity to infection.

Infection with H. Pylori increases risk of GASTRIC CANCER.

Treatments

Antibiotics can be recommended to kill H. Pylori.

Drugs that neutralize stomach acid.

Adapt food and lifestyle that can reduce the effects of ulcer.

Health tips

Spicy foods does not cause ulcer but it can increase the risk and worsen ulcer.

When infected with H. Pylori, smoking increases the risk of ulcer.

Alcohol can cause erosion of lining of GIT, thus, enhancing ulcer.

Protect yourself from contracting infections like H. Pylori. 

Avoid prolonged usage of pain relievers and NSAIDs.

Avoid use of tobacco.

Untreated stress can increase risk of ulcer.

Honey, an antioxidant-rich food an be used as home remedy to treat ulcer.

Apple, pear and foods rich in fibers are good for ulcer.

Please, note that this post does not serve as a medical consultation. Visit your doctor for further information. 

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