Ulcer Stomach Pain

Stomach ulcers are lesions or open sores typically caused by infection or long-term use of certain medication. They result in acute stomach pain as well as blood in the vomit and stool. Treatments and prevention for stomach pain caused by ulcers are straightforward but imperative as ignoring pain can lead to increased stomach damage.

Causes

• Ulcers occur when an infection or medication causes the protective lining of the stomach to weaken. Acids used to digest food then begin to leak, eventually causing mass irritation or lesions along the stomach wall. Stomach ulcers are most commonly caused by bacteria known as H. Pylori, which can often live harmlessly in the digestive tract without ever causing complications. The second most common cause is the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), which interfere with the body's ability to protect the stomach lining from intestinal acid. Other common causes include overuse of alcohol, radiation therapy and physical injury.

Effects

• Stomach ulcer pain most commonly results in an intense burning sensation in the gut. This sensation is usually accompanied by vomiting, nausea, indigestion and heartburn. These symptoms are further aggravated by an empty stomach after intestinal acids no longer have food to break down. As a result, nighttime aggravation is a typical side effect of stomach ulcer pain. Pain worsens as an ulcer grows. Increased pain over time may indicate a growing ulcer that can eventually cause internal bleeding and death if not treated.

Treatment

• Because pain is caused by acids eating away at the stomach wall, antacids have been known to quell intestinal discomfort. Drinking milk can also soothe the stomach because milk is a base liquid that combats acid. Small ulcers can be repaired over time by the body's immune system, but do not rely solely on your body to fix stomach pain, especially if you know you have an ulcer. Acupuncture and homeopathic herbs can help relieve stomach pain when combined with conventional medication.

Prevention/Solution

• Prevention of stomach ulcers usually incorporates switching medication if you have been on NSAIDS for a long time. Speak with your doctor to determine which medication alternatives would best suit your particular situation.

Warning

• Avoid spicy and acidic foods if you have an ulcer. Do not ignore stomach pain, especially if it results in bloody vomit or stool (an indication of internal bleeding). Contact your doctor immediately if you experience a sudden increase in stomach pain or conditions continue to worsen.