Content
Gastric ulcer, also known as peptic ulcer or stomach ulcer, is a wound that forms in the tissue lining the stomach, caused by several factors, such as poor diet or infection by bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), for example.
The presence of this ulcer leads to the appearance of some symptoms, such as stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, especially after eating, although it may also not show symptoms for a long time. Usually, the presence of an ulcer is not a very serious situation, and should be treated with antacid medications, which prevent the gastric juice present in the stomach from making the wound even bigger.
Symptoms of gastric ulcer
Symptoms of gastric ulcer sometimes worsen after eating, even when the person uses drugs that control digestion. The main symptoms of gastric ulcer are:
- Severe abdominal pain, in the form of a twinge, which worsens when eating or drinking;
- Burning pain in the "mouth of the stomach";
- Motion sickness;
- Vomiting;
- Abdominal distension;
- Bleeding from the stomach wall, which can cause blood to leak in the stool, visible or identified in the stool blood test.
It is also important to remember that, in addition to gastric ulcer, a duodenal ulcer can be formed, located in the first portion of the intestine, which usually causes symptoms during fasting periods or during the night. Learn to recognize the symptoms of gastric ulcer.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of gastric ulcer is made by the gastroenterologist or general practitioner based on the evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented by the person, in addition to performing an upper digestive endoscopy to identify the cause and verify the extent and severity of the ulcer.
To perform the endoscopy, the doctor will place a probe, with a microcamera on the tip, inside the person's mouth up to his stomach, being able to clearly visualize the internal walls of the stomach and his injuries, and if necessary, he can take a small sample of the tissue so that it can be sent to the laboratory for biopsy. Understand how endoscopy is done and how to prepare for the exam.
Causes of gastric ulcer
Gastric ulcers form when the stomach is vulnerable to its own acidity, when its defenses are weakened, and it can happen mainly due to:
- Genetic factor;
- Use of drugs that affect the defenses of the stomach wall, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or AAS, for example;
- Bacterial infectionHelicobacter pylori, which multiplies in the stomach and weakens its protective barrier;
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages and use of cigarettes, which have an irritating effect;
- Stress, a situation that affects the defenses of the stomach lining and favors the appearance of symptoms.
In addition, an unbalanced diet, rich in fat, sugars and irritating foods such as caffeine or pepper, for example, can worsen the symptoms and the progression of the ulcer and other gastric diseases, such as reflux. Know other causes of ulcer.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for gastric ulcers is made with the use of drugs that decrease stomach acidity, such as antacids or acidity inhibitors, such as Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Lansoprazole or Esomeprazole, for example, even during pregnancy. Analgesics may also be recommended by the doctor to control pain, if necessary. In the case of endoscopy, indicate infection by H. pylori, the doctor may recommend the use of antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin and Clarithromycin.
It is also important that the person pay attention to food, giving preference to cooked fruits and vegetables, grains, light dairy products, bread, and lean meats, and avoiding very hot foods, alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, sandwiches, fast food, fried foods and sweets in general. It is recommended that the use of cigarettes and the consumption of foods that promote the release of gastric acid, such as coffee, black tea, mate, condiments, hot sauces and acid fruits such as cashew, orange, lemon and pineapple, should also be avoided. See how the food should be in case of gastric ulcer.
Home treatment options
A great home treatment for gastric ulcer is to drink the pure juice of a potato a day, preferably on an empty stomach, taking it right after preparation. The potato is a natural antacid that has no contraindications, very effective in case of gastritis and ulcers. Check out this and other home remedy recipes for gastric ulcer.