What Causes Ulcers

Top Takeaways:

Ulcers are sores that form on the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
They can be caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, prolonged use of NSAIDs, smoking, and other factors.
Symptoms include burning pain in the tummy area, bloating, and nausea.
Diagnosis typically involves gastroscopy and testing for H. pylori.
Treatment includes medication to reduce stomach acid, antibiotics for infections, and lifestyle changes.

Introduction to Ulcers

Ulcers are painful sores that develop on the lining of your digestive tract. These open sores primarily form in the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine, called the duodenum.

Here are the essentials about ulcers:
– They can lead to severe complications if not treated.
– Ulcers are mostly a result of an imbalance between digestive fluids in the stomach and duodenum.

Source: What Causes – Ulcers

Common Causes of Ulcers

Helicobacter pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the most common cause of ulcers. This bacterium weakens the protective mucous coating of the stomach and small intestine, allowing acid to get through to the sensitive linings beneath.

How it spreads:
- Through contaminated food and water or close contact.
- Often acquired in childhood.

Learn more about H. pylori

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are another major cause of ulcers. Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can irritate and inflame the stomach lining if used regularly over a long period.

Impact:
- Reduces the stomach’s ability to protect itself from stomach acids.
- Increases the risk of bleeding ulcers.

Other Factors

Several other factors can also contribute to the development of ulcers:

Smoking: Increases stomach acid production and reduces bicarbonate.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Irritates and erodes the stomach lining.
Stress and Spicy Foods: Though not direct causes, they can worsen the symptoms.

Learn more about ulcers

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of ulcers can vary, but they commonly include:

Burning stomach pain.
Bloating and belching.
Nausea or vomiting.
Weight loss and loss of appetite.

Diagnosis typically includes:

Gastroscopy: A small camera on a flexible tube examines your stomach lining.
Tests for H. pylori: Breath, blood, stool, or tissue tests.

Learn about H. pylori testing

Treatment Options

Treating ulcers involves addressing the underlying cause:

Medications:
- Antibiotics: To eradicate H. pylori infection.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid.
- H2-receptor antagonists: Reduce acid production.
- Antacids: Neutralise stomach acid.
Lifestyle Changes:
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Avoiding NSAIDs as much as possible.
- Eating a balanced diet avoiding foods that irritate the stomach.

Source: **What Causes – What Causes Section

Prevention Tips

Preventing ulcers involves several proactive steps:

Beneficial dietary practices: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limiting NSAID use: Only take as directed by your doctor.
Practicing good hygiene: Wash hands frequently to prevent H. pylori infection.
Stress Management: Techniques like yoga and meditation.

Linking to NHS – Stress Tips

FAQ

1. Can spicy foods cause ulcers?
– Directly, no, but they can aggravate existing stomach lining issues.

2. How long does it take for an ulcer to heal?
– With proper treatment, most ulcers heal in a few weeks.

3. Are there any home remedies for ulcers?
– Natural remedies like honey, garlic, and probiotics can help, but should not replace medical treatment.

4. Can ulcers be life-threatening?
– If left untreated, ulcers can lead to severe complications like bleeding or perforation and can be life-threatening.

5. Are ulcers contagious?
– The ulcers themselves are not, but H. pylori, the bacterium that can cause them, is.

Mayo Clinic Ulcers FAQs

Ulcers