it is quite unfortunate that many a times, you heard some people complaint of heartburn, stomach upset, burning sensation in the chest or someone says i do not eat
hot spices ( pepper) , these are just example of cases of stomach ulcer
What is a stomach ulcer?
Stomach ulcers, which are also known as gastric ulcers, are painful sores in the stomach lining.
Stomach ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer disease.
Peptic ulcers are any ulcers that affect both the stomach and small intestines.
Stomach ulcers occur when the thick layer of mucus that protects your stomach from digestive juices ( hydrochloric acid ) is reduced. This allows the digestive acids to eat away at the tissues that line the stomach, causing an ulcer.
Stomach ulcers may be easily cured, but they can become severe without proper treatment.
What causes stomach ulcers?
Stomach ulcers are almost always caused by one of the following:an infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen
Rarely, a condition known as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers by increasing the body’s production of acid.
This syndrome is suspected to cause less than 1 percent of all peptic ulcers.Symptoms of stomach ulcers
A number of symptoms are associated with stomach ulcers. The severity of the symptoms depends on the severity of the ulcer.The most common symptom is a burning sensation or pain in the middle of your abdomen between your chest and belly button. Typically, the pain will be more intense when your stomach is empty, and it can last for a few minutes to several hours.Other common signs and symptoms of ulcers include:dull pain in the stomach
weight loss
not wanting to eat because of pain
nausea or vomiting
bloating
feeling easily full
burping or acid reflux
heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest)
pain that may improve when you eat, drink, or take antacids
anemia, whose symptoms can include tiredness, shortness of breath, or paler skin
dark, tarry stools,vomit that’s bloody or looks like coffee grounds
Even though discomfort may be mild, ulcers can worsen if they aren’t treated. Bleeding ulcers can become life-threatening.
How are stomach ulcers diagnosed?
Diagnosis and treatment will depend on your symptoms and the severity of your ulcer. To diagnose a stomach ulcer, your doctor will review your medical history along with your symptoms and any prescription or over-the-counter medications you’re taking.To rule out H. pylori infection, a blood, stool, or breath test may be ordered. With a breath test, you’ll be instructed to drink a clear liquid and breathe into a bag, which is then sealed. If H. pylori is present, the breath sample will contain higher-than-normal levels of carbon dioxide.Other tests and procedures used to diagnose stomach ulcers include:Barium swallow: You drink a thick white liquid (barium) that coats your upper gastrointestinal tract and helps your doctor see your stomach and small intestine on X-rays.
Endoscopy (EGD): A thin, lighted tube is inserted through your mouth and into the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. This test is used to look for ulcers, bleeding, and any tissue that looks abnormal.
Endoscopic biopsy: A piece of stomach tissue is removed so it can be analyzed in a lab.
Treating stomach ulcers Treatment will vary depending on the cause of your ulcer. ,
If your stomach ulcer is the result of H. pylori, you’ll need antibiotics
Symptoms of an ulcer may subside quickly with treatment. But even if your symptoms disappear, you should continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor. This is especially important with H. pylori infections, to make sure that all bacteria are eliminated
it was thought that diet could cause ulcers. We know now this isn’t true. We also know that while the foods you eat won’t cause or cure a stomach ulcer, eating a healthful diet can benefit your intestinal tract and overall health.In general, it’s a good idea to eat a diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and fiber.That said, it’s possible that some foods play a role in eliminating H. pylori. Foods that may help fight off H. pylori or boost the body’s own healthy bacteria include:broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and radishes
leafy greens, such as spinach apples blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries
olive oil
Additionally, since people with stomach ulcers may have accompanying acid reflux disease, it is a good idea to stay away from spicy and sour foods while an ulcer is healing.
for more information on how to treat ulcer with natural remedy kindly contact Dr Williams on 07036507238 or whatsapp or email mosesabiola@gmail.com