10 things to know about peptic ulcers : Causes, risk factors and more
Peptic ulcers are breaks in the mucosal lining, often affecting the duodenum. Common causes include Helicobacter pylori, NSAIDs, smoking, alcohol, stress, and certain therapies. Symptoms include burning abdominal pain, heartburn, and appetite loss. Management involves avoiding triggers, using antacids, and in severe cases, surgery to treat complications like perforation or bleeding.
Structure of the Small Intestine The small intestine is a coiled tube in the digestive system that helps in digesting food and absorbing nutrients. It consists of three main parts, the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum. The duodenum is the first section, where most of the chemical digestion takes place. (Image: Canva)
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Layers and Ulcer Location The duodenum consists of four layers, the mucosa, submucosa, muscularis and serosa. A peptic ulcer is defined as a break in the continuity of the mucosa lining, which may also extend into the submucosa. Peptic ulcer most commonly affects the first part of the duodenum even more frequently than the stomach. (Image: Canva)
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Role of Helicobacter pylori A bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori is responsible for the formation of peptic ulcers. It can attach to the epithelium and damage the mucosa. This bacterium is also responsible for causing gastritis, MALT (mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue) and even adenocarcinoma of the stomach.(Image: Canva)
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Transmission and Drug-Induced Ulcers Helicobacter pylori can spread via the oral route or the faeco-oral route. Kissing and ingestion of contaminated vomitus may also spread the pathogen. Certain drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin can cause irritation of the mucosa and reduce the protective mechanism.(Image: Canva)
Smoking and Alcohol as Risk Factors Other causes of development of peptic ulcers include cigarette smoking and alcohol. While cigarette smoking can impair the blood flow and healing of damage caused to the mucosa, alcohol can directly injure this layer, and break its continuity in the stomach or the duodenum.(Image: Canva)
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Therapy and Chemical Exposure Therapies for carcinoma (or other reasons) like radiation or chemotherapy may also potentially cause an injury to the mucosal layer. Ingestion of chemicals, or a history of gastric hyperacidity or consumption of drugs like cocaine may also predispose one to the development of peptic ulcers.(Image: canva)
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Impact of Psychological Stress Psychological stress has also been found to increase the chances of having a peptic ulcer. It is crucial to be able to deal with everyday stressors, especially those who work in fast-paced environments. Practices like meditation and yoga must be included in the daily schedule.(Image: Canva)
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Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer The affected person may experience abdominal pain, and they may be able to localise it by pointing a finger towards the upper part of the abdomen. It is often a burning type of pain, or a gnawing discomfort in the abdomen. Pain may be worse on an empty stomach.(Image: canva)
Effect of Food and Antacids Consuming any food, milk and antacids can relieve pain, and so can belching or vomiting. However, in people who have gastric ulcers, consuming food can lead to pain. Other symptoms include heartburn, water-brash (means excessive salivation) and loss of appetite.(Image: Canva)
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Prevention and Treatment Measures Alcohol and cigarette smoking must be avoided at all costs. NSAIDs must not be taken, like ibuprofen or aspirin. Antacids are commonly prescribed for dealing with this condition and surgery may only be needed in cases where ulcer-related complications like perforation and haemorrhage. (Image: Canva) Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
