Gastric ulcers, also known as stomach ulcers, are painful sores that form on the stomach lining. They occur when the stomach's protective lining is damaged, allowing stomach acid to create an open sore. The most common cause of this damage is an infection by a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This bacterium can weaken the stomach's defense against acid. Another common cause is the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin, which can also harm the stomach's lining by reducing its protective mucus. Other factors that can contribute to gastric ulcers include excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and high stress levels.
People with gastric ulcers often experience a burning pain in the upper abdomen, especially when the stomach is empty. This pain can come and go, and it might be relieved temporarily by eating certain foods or taking antacid medications. Other symptoms can include bloating, burping, nausea, and in severe cases, vomiting blood or having black, tarry stools, which indicate bleeding in the stomach.
Diagnosing gastric ulcers usually involves a doctor asking about symptoms and medical history, as well as performing tests. One common test is an endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth into the stomach to look for ulcers. Other tests might include checking for H. pylori infection using breath, blood, or stool samples, or biopsies taken during the endoscopy.
Treatment for gastric ulcers often involves medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the stomach lining, allowing the ulcer to heal. Doctors commonly prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists, which lower the amount of acid the stomach produces. If an H. pylori infection is present, a combination of antibiotics will be used to eradicate the bacteria. Antacids can also help by neutralizing stomach acid and providing quick pain relief.
It’s important for people with gastric ulcers to make some lifestyle changes to help their stomach heal and prevent future ulcers. Avoiding NSAIDs, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress can all make a big difference. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding spicy or acidic foods that might irritate the stomach can also help.
If gastric ulcers are not treated, they can lead to serious complications. These include internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening, and perforation, where the ulcer creates a hole in the stomach wall. This can lead to a serious infection in the abdominal cavity called peritonitis. Another possible complication is gastric outlet obstruction, where the ulcer blocks the passage of food through the stomach, causing vomiting and weight loss.
Preventing gastric ulcers involves addressing the factors that can cause them. Practicing good hygiene, like washing hands thoroughly and eating food that has been properly prepared, can help prevent H. pylori infection. Regular medical check-ups can help catch any issues early, before they become more serious.
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20 окт 2024
