15/03/2022
Battling Stomach Ulcer?
What causes stomach ulcers? Do not assume spicy foods are to blame. Spicy foods may aggravate ulcer symptoms in some people, but they don’t cause ulcers. You might then ask, what causes ulcer? Before we talk about that, lets understand the term peptic ulcer.
Peptic ulcer disease is a condition in which painful sores or ulcers develop in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum). Normally, a thick layer of mucus protects the stomach lining from the effect of its digestive gastric juices. But many things can reduce this protective layer, allowing stomach acid to damage the tissue.
There’s a wrong notion people have about ulcers; they think stress or certain foods could cause ulcers. But researchers haven’t found any evidence to support those theories. Instead, studies have revealed two main causes of ulcers:
· Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
· Pain-relieving NSAIDS medications.
The H. Pylori is a gram-negative bacterium usually transmitted through uncontaminated sources. The bacteria stick to the layer of mucus in the digestive tract and cause inflammation (irritation), which can cause this protective lining to break down. This breakdown is a problem because the stomach contains strong acid intended to digest food. Without the mucus layer to protect it, the acid can eat into stomach tissue.
NSAIDS medications.: Another major cause of peptic ulcer disease is the use of a group of medications used to relieve pain. NSAID use is a common cause of peptic ulcer disease. These drugs disrupt the mucosal permeability barrier, rendering the mucosa vulnerable to injury.
Smoking and stress can aggravate an existing ulcer.
Common signs and symptoms include: Epigastric abdominal pain, Bloating, heartburn, Nausea and vomiting, Weight loss/weight gain, Hematemesis
Having known what primarily causes ulcer, how then can it be treated?
Medications: Antisecretory drugs used for peptic ulcer disease (PUD) include H2-receptor antagonists (cimetidine, ranitidine) and the proton pump inhibitor (PPIs) such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, esomeprazole. PPIs block acid production in the stomach, providing relief of symptoms and promote healing.
Alongside these medications, Geszin capsules is a highly recommended supplement that works effectively in treating ulcer and improving its symptoms. It contains active herbs that has proven efficacy scientifically for ulcer treatment.
NOTE: Treatment may be incorporated with calcium supplements as long-term use of the PPIs can increase the risk of bone fractures.
For H. pylori-induced PUD: First-line treatment is a triple regimen comprising two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor. Pantoprazole, clarithromycin, and metronidazole, or amoxicillin are used for 7 to 14 days. Antibiotics and PPIs work synergistically to eradicate H. pylori.
For NSAIDs induced PUD: It can be treated by stopping the use of NSAIDs or switching to a lower dose. Corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, and anticoagulants should also be discontinued if possible. Prostaglandin analogs (misoprostol) are sometimes used as prophylaxis for NSAID-induced peptic ulcers.
Diet and Lifestyle: People with PUD should eat a healthy balanced diet. It does not help to eat more often or increase the amount of milk and dairy products you consume. These changes may even cause more stomach acid. Avoid foods and drinks that cause discomfort for you. For many people these include alcohol, coffee, caffeinated soda, fatty foods, chocolate, and spicy foods. Try to reduce your stress level and learn ways to better manage stress.
