Stomach ulcers

Stomach ulcers are common, affecting millions of people. On average, the size of a stomach ulcer can range between 5 and 10 mm.

Definition

A stomach or peptic ulcer, is a sore that forms on the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the area of the small intestine or duodenum (duodenal ulcer). Symptoms include a burning pain in the stomach that usually happens when your stomach is empty and feels better after you have eaten. An ulcer is not contagious. Duodenal ulcers are almost always benign, while stomach ulcers may become malignant. Fortunately, 90% of all ulcers are easily curable.

Bleeding ulcers

Unattended ulcers can start bleeding, and this is the most deadly complication of all! If this complication has already set in, then these are the warning signs or symptoms you really have to look out for:

• • Black and smelly stools

• • Nausea or vomiting of blood

• • Chest and back pain

• • Fainting and shaky episodes.

Some people also experience nausea, weight loss and appetite changes.

Causes

• • Bacteria. Bacteria named helicobacter pylori, commonly called H pylori, are responsible for the majority of stomach ulcers. These cork-screw shaped bacteria live in the layer that covers the lining of the stomach and small intestine. When they get out of control, they inflame the area, causing a peptic ulcer. This common gastrointestinal infection can usually be diagnosed with a blood test. Medications to block and even stop the production of stomach acid are prescribed along with antibiotics to treat H pylori. Some people have to continue taking the medication to slow down acid production even after the antibiotic regimen is complete.

• • NSAIMs. Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIMs) on a regular basis can also inflame the stomach and intestine as they can stop the production of prostaglandins, a substance in the body that protects the stomach lining. Taking NSAIMs with food can help protect the stomach from distress.

• • Smoking. The nicotine in cigarette smoke can contribute to stomach ulcers. When you inhale, the nicotine increases not only the amount of acid in your stomach, but also the concentration of the acid. This acid can irritate and inflame the stomach, intestine and oesophagus. Smoking during ulcer treatment will also slow down the progression of the treatment.

• • Alcohol. Like nicotine, alcohol can increase stomach acid and irritate the mucous lining. If you already have an ulcer, drinking alcohol will increase your symptoms and slow your treatment.

• • Age. Age plays a role in stomach ulcers. Children and teenagers seldom suffer from ulcers. As people get older and their lifestyle becomes more complex, often with drinking and smoking as part of their lives, they are more likely to develop an ulcer.

Treatment

A stomach ulcer can only be treated after it has been diagnosed either by an endoscopy, biopsy, C14 breath test or a barium meal. After the diagnosis, medication is usually administered. This therapy aims at treating the root cause of the ulcer, which means the removal of the H pylori bacteria.

The dosage instructions should be followed strictly and the treatment course should be completed so as to ensure the eradication of the bacteria. People are advised to abstain from spicy foods during the treatment period because, even though spicy foods do not trigger ulcers, they certainly aggravate it.

The medicinal treatment is effective in 90% of the cases. The doctor may conduct tests after the treatment to check if the bacteria have been completely removed or else an endoscopy will be carried out. After the course of treatment, the doctor may prescribe medication to keep the ulcer from returning.

If the intake of NSAIMs is the cause of the ulcer, then one needs to stop taking them until the ulcer heals. The doctor may even prescribe some alternative medications which will not leave the stomach vulnerable, such as acid inhibiting medications which need to be taken with the NSAIMs.

Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours a day if you want to know more about stomach ulcers.