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    Understanding Peptic Ulcers

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    diagnosing a peptic ulcer

    When it comes to ulcers, there are many different means of diagnosis. The method known as upper GI series consists in taking X-rays of the stomach and duodenum. Another diagnostic technique, an endoscopy, employs a small tube with a tiny camera on the end that is inserted through the mouth to look at the inside of the stomach and duodenum. A third technique is a biopsy, which involves removing a tiny piece of the stomach to view under a microscope.

    Once a peptic ulcer has been diagnosed, a breath, blood or tissue test can determine whether the ulcer is caused by bacteria.

    who is at risk?

    One in 10 Americans suffer from ulcers at one point in their lives. They are slightly more common in men; the lifetime prevalence of ulcers for American males is 11% to 14%. Duodenal ulcers are more common in men than in women, whereas women are more prone to suffer from gastric ulcers.

    Ulcers can develop at any age, although they are rarely found in children and teenagers. Stomach ulcers usually occur in people over 60, while duodenal ulcers usually develop between the ages of 30 and 50. Finally, if you have relatives who have peptic ulcers, you are more likely to get one.

    how are ulcers treated?

    There exist many different treatment options for ulcers. Although it was once believed that a change in eating habits could cure an ulcer, there really is no particular diet that is helpful. While antacids can help to relieve the pain and heal the ulcer, as they won't kill the ulcer-causing bacteria, there will always be a risk of recurrence.

    A more effective option is medication such as proton pump inhibitors or histamine receptor blockers, which prevent your stomach from making the damaging acids. When the cause of the ulcer is H. pylori , antibiotics are used in combination with these medications.

    If your ulcer doesn't heal, keeps coming back or perforates, bleeds or obstructs the stomach or duodenum, surgery may be necessary. This way, the ulcer can be removed or the amount of acid your stomach makes can be reduced.

    don't delay...

    Here are some steps to take to avoid developing a peptic ulcer in the first place:

  • Don't use NSAIDs; talk to your doctor about other pain relievers.
  • Don't smoke.
  • Don't drink alcohol.
  • Avoid spicy foods and caffeine.
  • If, however, you believe that you are already suffering from a peptic ulcer, seek treatment right away. Although ulcers are rarely life-threatening, they can lead to dangerous complications if left untreated. There is no reason to keep suffering through the pain and discomfort of an ulcer; a few lifestyle changes and medication are all you need to get back to normal. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options.


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