Ulcers

Definition: erosions in the protective lining of the stomach or small intestine – those in the stomach are gastric ulcers and the most common ulcer is the duodenal ulcer in the upper small intestine.

Causes: ulcers are the result of inflammation brought about by an imbalance in the acid-secretion and mucosal defenses of the body, which may be started by medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen or aspirin, smoking, over secretion of stomach acids, or a bacterial infection by Helicobacter pylori.

Signs and symptoms: Some ulcers cause no signs or symptoms, but often a person has upper abdominal pain approximately 45-60 minutes after eating, or during the night, that is relieved by food or antacids. The pain is often described as gnawing, burning, aching, or cramp-like, often like heartburn. Sometimes the pain will radiate to the back. The person may be nauseous and vomit small amounts of acid. If black, tarry stools are present, there may be a bleeding ulcer. See a physician if this occurs. A perforated ulcer must be treated immediately.

Treatment:

Medically various drugs are used to block acid production, such as Pepcid, Zantac, Axid, or Tagamet. If caused by a bacterium, antibiotics are used. If you are put on antibiotics, use acidophilus supplementation along with it. Over the counter medications such as antacids may also be effective in mild cases.

Avoid hot and spicy foods if they irritate, but most people can eat a normal diet. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, aspirin, ibuprofen, and stop smoking.

Alternatively, in addition to the above changes, eat a higher fiber, low glycemic index diet, and reduce stress. Take vitamin A and zinc to help with healing the lining of the intestinal tract. Ginger can help with a bacterial infection by H. pylori. Comfrey is also helpful. The amino acid glutamine also helps heal the intestinal lining.

Prevention:

In addition to a good diet, prevention of ulcers involves avoiding those substances that can cause the ulcers, such as smoking and pain relievers. Use other methods to address the pain than pharmaceutical pain relievers.