Researchers estimate that around 8.09% had at least one peptic ulcer in 2019, a 25% increase from 1990. The same study reported that cases in the United States had decreased since the first half of the 20th century. They started to increase again between 1990 and 2019. A peptic ulcer is a sore that forms when digestive juices wear away the lining of the digestive system. It can occur in the lining of the stomach, duodenum, or lower part of the esophagus. There are various symptoms and causes when it comes to peptic ulcers.

Symptoms Of A Peptic Ulcer

Some symptoms of a peptic ulcer may go completely unnoticed while others may cause mild discomfort or pain. Some patients have described feeling a dull, burning pain in their stomach. Other symptoms include:

• difficulty swallowing food

• nausea

• vomiting

• feeling bloated or full

• black, sticky stool (if bleeding)

Other signs you may have a peptic ulcer can be more severe. Symptoms that the peptic ulcer is bleeding include:

• vomiting blood

• black and tarry stools, or stools with dark red blood

• nausea and vomiting that is especially persistent and severe

If you are experiencing more severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

What Causes a Peptic Ulcer?

Peptic ulcers occur due to several potential causes, but the two most common includeTrusted Source:

• H. pylori bacteria

• long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Many people carry H. pylori bacteria naturally so it is unclear why the bacteria can cause ulcers in only some people. H. pylori bacteria spreads through food and water. They live in the mucus that coats the lining of the stomach and duodenum. Their job is to produce and enzyme called urease that neutralizes stomach acid. To compensate for this, the stomach will produce more acid and that irritates the stomach lining which causes inflammation and peptic ulcers. Patients with peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria need antibiotic treatment in order to remove the bacteria and prevent them from returning. 

NSAIDS is a type of medication used often for headaches, period pains, and other pains. They can also help reduce fever and inflammation. Examples include aspirin and ibuprofen. Many NSAIDs are available without a prescription. The problem is that these medications lower the stomach’s ability to create a protective layer of mucus which makes it more susceptible to damage caused by stomach acid. 

Other potential causes of peptic ulcers include:

• Genetics

• Smoking

• Alcohol Consumption

• Corticosteroid Use

• Stress

How Do You Treat A Peptic Ulcer?

Treatment for a peptic ulcer focuses on either lowering stomach acid levels so that the ulcer can heal or eradicating the H. pylori infection. The following are common treatment methods a doctor may recommend:

• Antisecretory agents. These include H2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors to help block stomach acid production.

• Triple therapy. This involves using two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor to eradicate H. pylori.

• Avoidance of NSAIDs. Doctors recommend avoiding the use of NSAIDs if the person uses them frequently.

• Surgery. In cases of bleeding, a doctor may recommend surgical intervention, which typically requires 8-12 weeksTrusted Source for recovery.

Your diet can contribute to the relief of peptic ulcer pain as well. You should avoid foods and flavorings that may cause the stomach to produce acid. This is commonly found in chili powder, garlic, black pepper, and caffeine. Alcohol should also be avoided as it can have the same effect on a person’s stomach. 

A person’s diet should contain foods that provide large portions of vitamin A and fiber because these foods typically dissolve easily. Examples of these are oats, apples, kale, nuts, and sweet potatoes.

Treating A Peptic Ulcer In Maryland

These ulcers can be painful and debilitating, but treatment can help the ulcer heal and alleviate the person’s symptoms. Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating any conditions you may have, as well as preventing further health complications through preventative care. For more information about managing your headaches, please contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.