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Peptic Ulcer |
A peptic ulcer is a place where the stomach or small intestine or the tissues beneath and sometimes part of the stomach muscle have been worn away, leaving an internal open wound. The surrounding tissue is usually swollen and irritated. Ulcers can occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, but are most common in the stomach called "gastric ulcers" or duodenum "duodenal ulcers", the portion of the small intestine closest to the stomach. Peptic ulcers affect over 5 million Americans each year, and it is estimated that they will affect approximately 10% of Americans at some point in their lives. The symptoms of a peptic ulcer include chronic burning or gnawing stomach pain that usually begins forty-five to sixty minutes after eating or at night, and that is relieved by eating, taking antacids, vomiting, or drinking a large glass of water. The pain may range from mild to severe. It may cause the individual to awaken in the middle of the night. Other possible symptoms include lower back pain, headaches, a choking sensation, itching, and possibly nausea and vomiting. An ulcer results when the lining of the stomach fails to provide adequate protection against the effect of digestive acids and enzymes, which, in effect, start to digest the stomach itself. Once it was believed that stress and anxiety were the main cause of ulcers. However, evidence has shown ulcers to be the result of infection with Helicobacter pylon bacteria combined with the presence of stomach acid. H. pylon can live on the lining of the stomach and small intestine, where it can cause damage to the lining and also to the mucous layer that protects the lining from digestive acids. Many health care professionals believe that the bacteria are transmitted from person to person through close contact. However, many health care professionals still consider stress to be a risk factor for peptic ulcers, as it increases stomach acid production. Certain drugs and supplements also may increase acid production. Taking aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, especially over a long period of time, can increase stomach acidity and lead to ulcers. Steroids, such as those taken for arthritis, can contribute to stomach ulcers. Having a family history of peptic ulcer disease also increases your risk, as does alcohol consumption. Heavy smokers are more prone to developing ulcers, and have greater trouble getting ulcers to heal. African-Americans and Latinos are twice as likely as Caucasians to have ulcers. If left untreated, ulcers can cause internal bleeding or puncture of the stomach or small intestine. |
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