Gastric Ulcers Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Gastric Ulcers?

Gastric ulcers are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. The layer protecting the stomach from stomach acid is broken down by H. pylori bacteria, leaving it unprotected from acid irritation. It is also called stomach ulcers.

Gastric Ulcers Types

The 4 types of stomach ulcers include;

• Type 1 -Occurs in the gastric antrum near lesser curvature.
• Type 2 -This is a combined ulcer of the duodenum and stomach.
• Type 3 (Prepyloric ulcer) – Occurs on the anterior to the pylorus.
• Type 4 – Ulcers in the proximal stomach and cardia.

Gastric Ulcers Causes

Stomach ulcer may be caused by either of the following;

• An infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria
• Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain killer drugs for long periods
• Alcohol and cigarette smoking also increase the risk of stomach ulcers.

Gastric Ulcers Symptoms

Gastric ulcer is characterized by these symptoms;

• Burning pain in the stomach after food intake.
• Heartburn.
• Loss of appetite.
• Stomach discomfort.
• Bloating

Stomach Ulcers diagnosis

Gastric ulcer diagnosis vary from simple physical examination to complex laboratory tests. They include;

• Using a stethoscope to listen to sounds in the abdomen.
• Biopsy used to investigate the presence of H. pylori bacteria.
• Visualization of the gullet and stomach using esophagogastrodeodenoscopy (EGD).
• Urea Breath testing.
• USG- Ultrasound of the abdomen.
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan

Gastric Ulcers Pain Relief

Research shows that the common over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers may not be very effective for stomach ulcers pain relief. This is because painkillers_ ibuprofen tend to irritate the mucosa lining in the stomach resulting in more sores on the stomach lining.

Instead of OTC painkillers, patients can use acetaminophen and antacids for their pain. However, this drug should only be taken after consultation from your medical expert. This is because when taken in excess, it may result in liver damage. Patients may also use yoga and meditation to ease stress and ultimately stomach pain.

People with severe ulcer pain may take OxyContin and Vicodin painkillers.

Gastric Ulcers Natural Remedy

Gastric ulcers and pain can be eased by natural home remedies and lifestyle changes such as;

• Avoiding alcohol and cigarette smoking.
• Eating foods rich in bioflavonoids such as fruits and vegetables.
• Taking probiotics rich foods e.g. yogurt.
• Taking honey, which suppresses the growth of H. pylori bacteria.
• Ingesting garlic.

Gastric Ulcers Treatment

Stomach ulcer is treated through;

• Antibiotics use such as Amoxil and Flagyl.
• Using proton pump inhibitor like omeprazole, that block gastric acid production
• Use of antacids that counterbalance the stomach acid
• Surgery e.g. antrectomy is used to treat severe gastric ulcer

Gastric Ulcers Medication

1. Antacids– that neutralizes acids produced.
2. Mucosal barrier fortifiers– forms a protective lining on stomach walls.
3. Proton Pump Inhibitors– Suppresses acid production.
4. Prostaglandin Analogs– reduces gastric acid production and stimulates mucous resistance to injury.

Gastric Ulcers Diet

Patients with stomach ulcers are encouraged to eat healthy foods. A healthy diet consists the following;

• Fruits and vegetables-cabbage, broccoli.
• Foods rich in vitamins A and C.
• Avoiding alcohol and other toxins.
• Foods rich in antioxidants
• Probiotics rich foods such as yogurt, kefir

Stomach Ulcer Ultrasound

 

stomach ulcer yogurt

Frequent Asked Questions (FAQ)