What is Peptic Ulcer?
Peptic Ulcer term is used to refer to a group of ulcerative disorders of the upper digestive system which appear to have in common the participation of acid-pepsin in their appearance. A peptic ulcer is produced when the aggressive effects of acid-pepsin dominate the protective effects of the stomach and duodenal mucosal resistance.
The gastric mucosa possesses an extraordinary capacity to secrete acid. Food ingestion is the major physiological stimulus of gastric acid secretion, which enables food to be digested. The gastric mucous membrane plays an important role in resisting acid effects by means of an insoluble mucous gel layer, which coats the mucosal surface of the stomach
Causes of Peptic Ulcer
1. Excessive spicy food intake.
2. Decreased mucosal blood flow and damage to the protective mucous gel layer.
3. Drugs like Aspirin and steroids.
4. Excessive alcohol, smoking and fatty food consumption.
5. Bacterial infection.
6. Genetic.
Clinical Features of Peptic Ulcer
1. Pain before or after a meal.
2. Heartburn.
3. Nausea and bloated feeling.
Management of Peptic Ulcer
1. Stop alcohol and smoking.
2. Correct diet
3. Reduce weight
4. Stop aspirin or steroids.
5. Antacids.
6. Consult a doctor.