Question 1

What is ulcer?

Accepted Answer

Ulcers are erosions in the lining of the stomach or duodenum (the first part of the small intestines). An ulcer in the stomach is called a gastric ulcer. An ulcer in the duodenum is called a duodenal ulcer. Together, ulcers of the stomach and duodenum are referred to as peptic ulcers. Most ulcers are erosions of the first layer of the inner lining. If the hole goes all the way through, this is called a perforation of the intestinal lining. This can cause shock and is a medical emergency.

Question 2

What are the risk factors for ulcer?

Accepted Answer

Normally, the lining of the stomach and small intestines have protection against the irritating acids produced in your stomach. For a variety of reasons, the protective mechanisms may become faulty, leading to a breakdown of the lining. This results in inflammation (gastritis) or an ulcer. The most common cause of such damage is a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori. Most people with peptic ulcers have this organism living in their gastrointestinal (GI) tract. On the other hand, many people have this organism living in their GI tract but they don't get an ulcer.

Question 3

What are the symptoms of ulcer?

Accepted Answer

Abdominal pain is the main symptom. It may awaken you at night, occur 2-3 hours after you eat, or get worse if you skip a meal. The pain may be relieved by antacids or milk. Other possible symptoms include: • Nausea, vomiting • Weight loss • Fatigue • Heartburn, indigestion, belching • Chest pain • Vomiting blood • Bloody or dark tarry stools It is important to note that you may have no symptoms at all from an ulcer.

Question 4

How is ulcer treated?

Accepted Answer

You should see a doctor if you have symptoms of an ulcer. Treatment often involves a combination of medications to kill the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, reduce acid levels, and protect the GI tract. This combination strategy allows your ulcer to heal and reduces the chance it will come back. Take all of your medications exactly as prescribed. The medications may include one or more of the following: • Antibiotics to kill Helicobacter pylori • Acid blockers (like cimetidine, ranitidine, or famotidine) • Proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole) • Medications that protect the tissue lining (like sucralfate) • Bismuth (may help protect the lining and kill the bacteria)

Question 5

What is the outlook for ulcer?

Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcers tend to come back if untreated. If you follow the treatment instructions from your doctor and take all of your medications, the Helicobacter pylori infection will be eliminated and you are much less likely to get another ulcer. Your symptoms will also improve if you follow some preventive lifestyle steps.

Question 6

What are the complications of ulcer?

Accepted Answer

• Bleeding internally • Perforation of the intestine and peritonitis • Bowel obstruction

Question 7

Can ulcer be prevented?

Accepted Answer

• Don't smoke or chew tobacco. • Limit alcohol. • Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Try acetaminophen instead. • Eat several small meals a day at regular intervals. • Limit coffee (both caffeinated and decaffeinated), black tea, and cola.

Ulcer - peptic

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Pressure ulcer (bedsore)

Ulcer - peptic

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Definition

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Symptoms

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Pressure ulcer (bedsore)

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