HEALTH IS WEALTH MAGAZINE
PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE Unveiling Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Peptic ulcer disease involves the formation of open sores, or ulcers, in the stomach or small intestine. Symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, heartburn, and nausea. Roughly one in 12 Americans grapple with this condition. Recently, singer Bruce Springsteen delayed concerts for 2023 due to medical treatment for peptic ulcer disease. Understanding Peptic Ulcer Disease Root Cause of Peptic Ulcer Disease The term "peptic" refers to stomach acid causing irritation to the stomach and small intestine lining, resulting in ulcers.
Dr. Carolyn Newberry, a gastroenterologist, explains that a breakdown in the protective mucus lining leads to peptic ulcer disease. Factors like reduced barrier efficacy or increased stomach acid secretion contribute to the condition.
Causes and Risk Factors
Various factors diminish the protective barrier against stomach acid, including smoking, alcohol, genetics, and certain medications like corticosteroids. Long-term use of NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can erode natural stomach protection. Bacterial infections, especially Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), commonly cause peptic ulcers. Stress, associated with increased stomach acid, is also a risk factor.
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