Duodenal Ulcer

The duodenum is a common spot for peptic ulcer formation. When there is an alteration in the balance between the stomach acid and the mucus defense barrier, it leads to damaged duodenum. NSAID, stress, smoking, heavy drinking and Helicobacter Pylori are some of the common causes for duodenal ulcers. There is intermittent pain in the upper abdomen. You might experience bloating and nausea. Complications arise when the ulcers bleed or are perforated. This is a medical emergency. An Endoscopy is done to confirm the presence of duodenal ulcers. A test for H. pylori bacterium can also help diagnosis.

Peptic ulcer disease

A person is affected by peptic ulcer disease when there is an open sore in the stomach lining or duodenum. When the ulcer is located in the stomach, it is gastric ulcer while an ulcer found in the duodenum is a duodenal ulcer and an ulcer in the esophagus is an esophageal ulcer. Some of the causes of peptic ulcers are H. pylori bacteria and NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen. Peptic ulcers are not caused by spicy food or alcohol or smoking. But they can worsen existing ulcers. While stress and personality types can worsen a peptic ulcer but it may not be cause for one. Often chronic ulcers are due to gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Persons suffering from peptic ulcer disease feel a dull ache that keeps coming and going. Typically the pain is felt when the stomach is empty. Vomiting and nausea are other symptoms of peptic ulcer disease. In severe cases, the patient suffering from peptic ulcer disease has black, tarry stools and unexplained weight loss. There might be blood in vomit. Upper GI Endoscopy and x-rays of the stomach can help diagnose peptic ulcer disease. Antibiotics are used to destroy bacteria that cause peptic ulcer disease. Antacids help in neutralizing the acid in the stomach. H2 Blockers are medication that control the production of acid thereby allowing the body time to heal.