A peptic ulcer is a small spot anywhere in the stomach or small intestine that is broken or has become eroded leading to an internal open sore/wound.
There are two main types of ulcers: duodenal and gastric.
1. Duodenal ulcers: These ulcers occur in the first part of the duodenum (the portion of the small intestine that is closest to the stomach). They are usually round or oval in shape and less than 1 cm in diameter. Duodenal ulcers are more common in men, particularly in middle or old age. These ulcers are seen more frequently than gastric ulcers. It has been estimated that 10% of the population are likely to experience a duodenal ulcer at some time during their life
2. Gastric ulcers are seen by both sexes usually in middle or old age. Almost all are located in the antrum area (the lower portion of the stomach which is near the small intestine). Although gastric ulcers respond well to treatment there is a tendency for relapses to occur.
Duodenal and gastric ulcers that are not treated can become chronic, painful, start bleeding, or perforate. Gastric ulcers that perforate are 3 times more likely to be fatal than duodenal ulcers. People suffering from gastric ulcers need to be monitored closely, should an ulcer fail to start healing within 3 weeks, they should have further tests done so gastric cancer can be ruled out.
Note: If blood appears in the stools (where they appear black), or if intense, steady pain is experienced that worsens with movement please consult a medical professional immediately. Here are some common symptoms associated with peptic ulcers:
Abdominal pain: This is one of the most common symptoms of a peptic ulcer. The pain is typically described as a burning or gnawing sensation and is often located in the upper abdomen. It may come and go but is generally more pronounced when the stomach is empty or at night.
Nausea and vomiting: Peptic ulcers can cause nausea and, in some cases, vomiting. Vomiting may sometimes contain blood, which appears dark or like coffee grounds.
Indigestion: Peptic ulcers can lead to indigestion or dyspepsia, characterized by a feeling of fullness, bloating, or discomfort in the upper abdomen, particularly after eating.
Loss of appetite: Some individuals with peptic ulcers may experience a decreased appetite or a feeling of early satiety.
Unintended weight loss: Chronic peptic ulcers can lead to unintended weight loss due to reduced food intake and poor nutrient absorption.
Dark or bloody stools: Bleeding ulcers can result in the presence of blood in the stools. Stools may appear black or tarry (melena) or contain bright red blood (hematochezia).
Fatigue: Chronic blood loss from peptic ulcers can lead to anemia, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and lightheadedness.
Chest pain: In some cases, peptic ulcers can cause chest pain that may be mistaken for heart-related issues. The pain can radiate to the neck, jaw, or arms.1. The treatment for peptic ulcers will depend on the cause. If H. pylori is present antibiotic medications will be used to kill the bacterium. Drs may also use medications that block acid production in the stomach (Proton pump inhibitors – PPIs), and others to reduce stomach acid production such as histamine (H-2) blockers, as well as antacids that neutralize stomach acid may also be used. Lastly, medications that help protect the tissues that line the stomach and small intestine (cytoprotective agents) might also be utilised.
Healing can take 2-8 weeks, recurrences however are common if dietary and lifestyle habits are not changed.
The following lifestyle changes are necessary for treating ulcers:
1. Eliminate or cut down on smoking Smoking may delay healing and make relapses more likely.
2. Reducing stress is important for healing.
3. Regular exercises for at least 30 minutes, 3 times a week.
4. Avoid using aspirin or ibuprofen for pain management.
5. Diet see below
Other recommendations:
1. For pain relief drinking a glass of water may assist as this dilutes stomach acid.
2. Drinking raw fresh cabbage juice has been shown to be successful in healing ulcers.
Nutrients and supplements:
1. Ulcer remedy – for stomach and duodenal ulcers. Stomach discomfort.
2. L-Glutamine – assists in healing peptic ulcers.
3. Vitamin E – aids in reducing acid and easing pain.
4. Probiotics – aid in digestion.
5. Digestive enzymes – assist with the digestion of undigested food and helps reduce inflammation.
6. Vitamin B Complex – is required for proper digestion.
7. Vitamin B6 – is required for enzyme production and wound healing.
8. Zinc – assists with healing
Factors that can cause or worsen ulcers include:
1. Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria commonly found in the mucous layer that forms a protective barrier protecting tissues lining the stomach and small intestine. In some instances H. pylori can cause inflammation of the stomach’s inner layer, thereby causing an ulcer.
2. Hereditary factors. There tends to be an overproduction of acid and digestive enzymes in the stomach of ulcer sufferers which is probably hereditary in nature.
3. Regular/overuse of certain pain relievers such as aspirin (aspirin is irritating and increases membrane permeability), and other prescription/over-the-counter pain medications like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may irritate or inflame the sensitive lining of the stomach and small intestine.
4. Cortisone steroids
5. Smoking may double the chance of developing a peptic ulcer. Smoking may also delay healing and make relapses more likely.
6. Stress, anxiety, and anger issues.
7. Decreased production of protective substances lining the stomach. Certain people may also have a defect in the lining of the stomach and intestinal tissue, which causes susceptibility to ulcers.
8. Resulting from major surgery, multiple injuries, or serious burns
9. Poor nutrition, allergies, and food sensitivities.Those suffering ulcers may feel deprived of something e.g. something that was promised or owed. There may be feelings of fear or a strong belief that they are not good enough. In ulcer, sufferers there is often a need to become aware of and admit the dependence for maternal security, and the longing to be loved and cared for.1. For ulcer sufferers it is important to maintain a healthy diet. Consume fresh foods as close to their natural state as possible. Ample fiber (Increasing dietary fiber will delay gastric emptying time) should be eaten with daily servings of leafy green vegetables (leafy green vegetables contain vitamin K often lacking in people with digestive problems) whole grains (such as brown rice and rolled oats), fresh fruit, and proteins with a minimum of animal fat.
2. Avoid caffeine and alcohol (caffeine and Alcohol both stimulate acid secretion) prepackaged and processed foods, chocolate, fried/greasy foods, fizzy drinks, sugar, refined carbohydrates, milk, and irritants such as black pepper, chili, and spicy foods. Also, be aware of allergens and food sensitivities.
3. Eating smaller more frequent meals are better tolerated by those with ulcers, also chew food thoroughly as this improves digestion.
4. For those with severe symptoms or with bleeding ulcers eating soft foods or food that is mashed, blended, or pureed is preferable as they are easy to digest.
5. Drinking raw fresh cabbage juice has been shown to be successful in healing ulcers.
6. Drink 8 cups of filtered water dailyDigestive System,Gastro Intestinal SystemUlcer remedy, L-Glutamine, Vitamin E, Tummy remedy, Digestive enzymes, Zinc, Vitamin B Complex, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Multi vits, Vitamin A
