About Ulcers

Ulcers are open sores that form on or inside of the body. Some common places where ulcers may occur are the mouth, stomach or intestines. Although there has been speculation that ulcers can be caused by stress, consuming too much fatty and spicy foods, excessive tobacco and alcohol use, or being genetically predisposed to developing ulcers, there is no solid scientific evidence that pinpoints any certain cause. Whatever the cause, ulcers can be painful. Fortunately for those who have them, there are many treatments available.

History

• Prior to the nineteenth century, there was very little known about ulcers, particularly stomach ulcers. With just basic medical practices and not very much information about stomach acids and other internal aspects of human biology, those who suffered from ulcers in earlier times knew nothing about how to prevent or treat them. As advances in medical history came about and anesthesia was introduced, doctors were able to perform operations to treat internal problems such as ulcers. Today, with advanced medical technology and a better understanding of ulcers, more treatment options are available.

Types

• Ulcers may form on the skin's surface as a result of diabetes or possibly skin breakdown from prolonged bed rest. Oral ulcers form in the mouth while other types form in areas along the digestive tract, such as the esophagus, stomach or intestines. Ulcers that form on the esophagus are esophageal ulcers. Peptic ulcers are those that occur in the lining of the stomach or upper part of the small intestine. Gastric ulcers are those that occur in the stomach and duodenal ulcers are those that occur in the duodenum or small intestine.

Features

• Know the symptoms of an ulcer so you know when to seek medical treatment. For oral ulcers, you will be able to see them. They usually appear as canker sores or blisters in or around the mouth. For gastric or duodenal ulcers, you will usually experience a gnawing or burning pain in the abdomen that is usually worse in between meals when the stomach is empty. Other symptoms that may accompany the stomach pain are weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and sometimes bleeding if the ulcer is perforated.

Considerations

• Although it has not been proven that eating certain foods will cause ulcers, medical studies have shown that some foods and drinks such as milk, coffee, citrus foods, tomatoes and high-fat and fried foods increase acid production in the stomach. Increased stomach acid production can contribute to the development of gastric ulcers. Some foods that are helpful in reducing gastritis and reducing the risk of developing ulcers are foods that are high in fiber such as oats, wheat, legumes and non-citrus fruits and vegetables. Herbal teas can also be helpful in aiding in digestion and suppressing the helicobacter pylori bacteria that causes some ulcers.

Prevention/Solution

• Treatments for ulcers include antacids, antibiotic medication, changes in dietary habits, surgery or a combination of all these. If the ulcer is the result of the helicobacter pylori bacteria, a doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria. Some prevention methods for ulcers can be cutting back on smoking and drinking habits, reducing stress and limiting your intake of over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.