What is a Stomach Ulcer?

It is the condition in which the mucosa that protects the inner surface of the stomach is damaged for various reasons and an ulcer is formed. What is a stomach ulcer? It occurs when the acid in the stomach irritates the mucosa. Stomach ulcers can also develop in other parts of the digestive system, such as the duodenum.

What are the symptoms of stomach ulcers?

It occurs when sores form on the inner surface of the stomach. It causes a series of disturbing symptoms related to the digestive system. Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the disease, the size of the sores and the general health of the person.

The most common symptom is a burning or gnawing pain, usually felt in the area between the navel and the breastbone. This pain is usually worse after meals and sometimes becomes more intense at night.

Ulcers can affect the normal functioning of the stomach and intestinal system. This can cause frequent bloating. It can also lead to gas problems.

The stomach irritation caused by an ulcer can cause nausea and sometimes vomiting. Symptoms become more noticeable when vomiting is severe.

Pain increases after eating. For this reason, patients may avoid eating. This can lead to weight loss. People may experience loss of appetite due to the effects of ulcers. Loss of appetite is usually associated with stomach disorders.

In some cases of stomach ulcers, bleeding may occur in the stomach. In this case, the stool may be black and tarry, or blood may be seen during vomiting. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Increased stomach acid and digestive problems can lead to frequent burping complaints.

Symptoms can seriously affect quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are very important. Therefore, when symptoms are noticed, a doctor should be consulted. If not consulted and treated, more serious complications may occur.

What is a Stomach Ulcer? What Causes It?

A stomach ulcer occurs when the protective mucosa is damaged. This causes open sores to appear in the stomach. Also known medically as a “peptic ulcer,” this condition occurs when stomach acid irritates the mucosa. It can occur in other parts of the digestive system.

• Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common causes. This bacterium causes inflammation in the stomach mucosa, weakening the protective layer. As a result, stomach acid can damage the tissues.
• Excessive acid production in the stomach can irritate the mucosa. Excessive acid production is usually associated with stress, poor diet or genetic predisposition.
• Long-term use of painkillers can damage the stomach lining. These drugs block the production of prostaglandins, which protect the stomach. This can lead to ulcers.
• Cigarettes and alcohol should be used. Otherwise, it increases stomach acid. It weakens the mucous layer. This may also cause.
• Consuming excessively spicy foods can negatively affect the gastric mucosa. Fatty or acidic foods can also cause similar damage. Chronic stress can also contribute to this condition, leading to the development of ulcers.

If left untreated, stomach ulcers can cause serious complications such as bleeding and perforation. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to control the disease.

How Are Stomach Ulcers Treated?

Treatment varies depending on the cause and severity of the disease. The aim of treatment is to heal the ulcer, relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Conservative treatment methods are applied for this purpose.

Proton pump inhibitors reduce stomach acid, which helps the mucosa heal. H2 receptor blockers reduce stomach acid, which helps ulcers heal. Ranitidine and famotidine are examples of this group.

If the cause is Helicobacter pylori bacteria, antibiotics are used. Usually, a combination of two antibiotics and an acid-reducing drug is used.

Antacids and mucosa protectors neutralize stomach acid. They protect the lining of the stomach and accelerate ulcer healing. Overly spicy, fatty or acidic foods should be avoided. Fibrous and light foods should be preferred.

Smoking and alcohol should definitely be stopped as they damage the stomach mucosa. Chronic stress can make it worse. Relaxation techniques and regular sleep are important to reduce stress.

Surgical intervention is applied to individuals who do not respond to conservative methods. In addition, surgical intervention may be necessary when serious complications occur.

Early diagnosis is very important in treatment. Regular treatment should be continued, What is a stomach ulcer? It prevents the ulcer from completely healing and recurring in a way that answers the question. A treatment plan should be implemented under the supervision of a doctor.