Esophageal ulcer

An esophageal ulcer also occurs due to bacterium H. pylori. But they are largely seen in persons who suffer GERD - GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease . When the contents of the stomach are pushed back into the esophagus and throat because the diaphragm in unable to prevent the backlash. Alcohol abuse, smoking and excessive aspirin or ibuprofen use are common causes for formation of Esophagitis-Peptic Ulcer.Pain is felt in the region above the navel and is worse when the stomach is empty. Other symptoms include blood in vomit, appetite changes, nausea and dark tarry stools. HPV, HSV and candida infection can lead to esophageal ulcers. Esophageal ulcers are usually treated with antibiotics. Acid reducers are also prescribed. Medications to reduce acid production help in protecting the stomach lining. Eating the right foods that do not provoke acid production in the stomach helps tackle ulcers.

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.