By Desmond Nleya
Ulcers are painful sores that can develop in different parts of the body, but most commonly they occur in the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. When people talk about ulcers, they often mean peptic ulcers – which include gastric ulcers (in the stomach) and duodenal ulcers (in the small intestine).
Causes of Ulcers
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection
A major cause of ulcers, H. pylori is a bacterium that damages the protective lining of the stomach and small intestine, making them vulnerable to acid.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can irritate or inflame the stomach lining when used frequently or in high doses.
Excessive Acid Production
Conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or lifestyle factors like stress and smoking may increase stomach acid, increasing ulcer risk.
Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol can erode the mucous lining of the stomach, while smoking increases acid production and delays healing.
Symptoms of Ulcers
Burning or gnawing stomach pain (often worse on an empty stomach)
Bloating or belching
Nausea or vomiting (sometimes with blood)
Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss
Dark, tarry stools (a sign of internal bleeding)
Symptoms may be mild at first but can become severe if untreated, sometimes leading to life-threatening complications like perforation or severe bleeding.
Prevention of Ulcers
Avoid Overuse of NSAIDs
Use pain relievers responsibly and with food. If long-term NSAIDs are necessary, consult your doctor about protective medications.
Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking
These habits weaken the protective stomach lining and delay healing.
Manage Stress
While stress alone doesn’t cause ulcers, it can worsen symptoms. Stress management techniques like exercise, meditation, or breathing exercises can help.
Maintain Good Hygiene
Since H. pylori is often spread through contaminated food or water, wash hands regularly and ensure food is properly prepared.
Treatment and Cure
Medications
Antibiotics to kill H. pylori bacteria
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 Blockers to reduce stomach acid
Antacids for immediate relief of mild symptoms
Lifestyle Changes
Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and irritating foods (like spicy and fried foods) supports healing.
Surgery
Rarely needed today, surgery may be required for ulcers that don’t heal or have complications like bleeding or perforation.
Ulcers are common but highly treatable. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent serious complications. Anyone experiencing persistent stomach pain, vomiting blood, or black stools should seek medical attention immediately.
