Peptic ulcers are open sores that evolve within the lining of the stomach and small intestine. This occurs when acidic digestive juices etch away the protective mucus layer of the digestive tract.

Two-thirds of the world population is infected with the bacterium, H. pylori. Meanwhile, not every one of them has an ulcer. There are two types of Peptic ulcers. They are Gastric ulcers and Duodenal ulcers.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, an organization of doctors who specialize in the digestive tract, there is no specific diet a person with ulcers needs to follow. Food choices do not cause ulcers, and nor does it worsen them.

Peptic ulcers are caused by bacteria called H. pylori, excessive use of certain pain relievers, cigarette smoking and alcohol intake. The risk factors are an increase in age, stress, eating spicy foods and a history of peptic ulcers.

Symptoms may be absent in some. Meanwhile, others may feel discomfort or burning pain in the stomach. Other symptoms include the feeling of indigestion, heartburn, loss of appetite, weight loss, burping, vomiting, bloody stool and nausea. Peptic ulcers, if untreated, can lead to internal bleeding.

The laboratory diagnosis of peptic ulcer is by Upper GI tract Biopsy, Rapid Urea Breath Test, Stool Occult Test and Serology.

Peptic ulcers can be prevented by avoiding alcohol, not smoking, stress management, regular handwashing, thorough cooking of meat, drinking clean water and taking caution with pain relievers.

Visit MedBioTech for all the necessary tests for accurate and early diagnosis of peptic ulcer.

References:

my.clevelandclinic.

www.healthline.com

www.webmd.com