Peptic Ulcer

google

A lesion or sore develop in the lining (Mucosa) of the digestive tract, typically in the lower esophagus, stomach or duodenum. Peptic ulcer are fairly common health problem.

Types of peptic ulcer are

• Gastric ulcer
• Duodenal ulcer
• Esophageal ulcer

Causes

• Helicobacter pylori (H pylori): A type of bacteria that can cause a stomach infection and inflammation
• Chronic uses of NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Radiation therapy
• Hypercalcemia
• Stomach cancer
• Smoking

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Indigestion
• Bloody and dark stool
• Chest pain
• Gastrointestinal bleeding and possible hemorrhage
• Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

• Medical history, a physical exam, and laboratory tests to diagnosis an ulcer and its cause. The presence of an ulcer can only be determined by looking directly at the stomach with endoscopy or X-rays test.
• In medical history doctors will ask symptoms, medicine you take especially NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen.
• In physical examination checks for bloating in abdomen, listens to sounds within abdomen using a stethoscope, taps on abdomen checking for tenderness or pain.
• In laboratory test include blood test, urea breath test, stool test.
• Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and biopsy.
• An upper GI series looks at the shape of upper GI tract.
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan.