Peptic Ulcer Prevention

A peptic ulcer is defined as a lesion or sore located in the intestinal tract and can form anywhere within the upper portion of the small intestine called the duodenum. These types of ulcers are most often caused by infective bacteria and chronic use of non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Learning how to prevent peptic ulcers will help reduce chances of complications such as perforation, bleeding or anemia.

Stop using NSAIDs

• Many people are chronic users of non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as Advil and aspirin and ibuprofen. These over-the-counter medications are commonly used for the treatment and relief of pain, inflammation, muscle aches and headaches. However, overuse of NSAIDs reduces the effectiveness of the gastrointestinal tract's ability to protect the stomach with mucus, chemicals that neutralize stomach acid and circulation of blood, which enhances cell repair and renewal.

Avoid Smoking

• The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that those who smoke have an increased chance of developing a peptic ulcer, or even develop peptic or other types of ulcers that are slow to heal than those who don't. Even prescription medications are often ineffective in healing an ulcer while an individual still smokes.

Avoid Alcohol

• The University of Maryland Medical Center says that nearly 25 million Americans develop a peptic ulcer in their lifetime. Alcohol abuse may be a major contributor to the development of peptic ulcers, and irritates them, creating a very slow healing process. Studies have not been able to determine the exact correlation between alcohol and peptic ulcer development, but researchers do know that ulcers are more commonly diagnosed in those who drink heavily than those who don't.