Peptic Ulcer Disease
A peptic ulcer is a sore that can develop on the lining of the stomach, the lower esophagus or the small intestine.
Types Of Peptic Ulcers
Gastric ulcers, which develop inside the stomach
Esophageal ulcers, which develop inside the esophagus
Duodenal ulcers, which develop in the upper section of the small intestines
Symptoms
- Burning or dull pain in the stomach
- Changes in appetite
- Nausea
- Bloody stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Indigestion
- Chest pain
- Vomiting
Causes
- Stomach infection caused by bacteria
- Frequent use of anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Radiation therapy
- Stomach cancer
Diagnosis
To correctly diagnose a peptic ulcer, an upper endoscopy or an upper gastrointestinal series must be performed by your gastroenterologist.
Treatment
Most ulcers can be healed using proton pump inhibitors (PPI) or another combination of medications. Additionally, your GI doctor may recommend an over-the-counter PPI (like Prilosec) tto help reduce your symptoms and heal the ulcer.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that align with a Peptic Ulcer, contact one of our GI doctors to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.