Peptic Ulcer Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a digestive disorder caused by the erosion of the mucosal lining in the stomach or small intestine. Peptic Ulcer Disease also known as gastric ulcer.

• Duodenal Ulcers: These ulcers, also known as duodenal ulcers, are found in the top section of the small intestine, right below the stomach.
• Esophageal Ulcers: These are ulcers that develop in the oesophagus, the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach. This form of peptic ulcer is uncommon, yet it may be fatal if not treated immediately.
• Gastric Ulcers: These are ulcers located in the lining of the stomach, also known as stomach ulcers.

The following are the primary causes of PUD:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria: This bacteria can be found in the stomach and duodenum and can cause an infection that leads to inflammation and ulcers.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications, such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and aspirin, can irritate the stomach lining and increase risk for developing ulcers.
• Stress or trauma: Stress or trauma can also increase risk for developing ulcers due to changes in acid production or decreased blood flow to the area affected by stress or trauma.
• Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use has been linked to an increased risk for developing ulcers due to its ability to damage tissues in the stomach and intestine.
• Smoking: Smoking has been associated with increased risk for developing ulcers due to chemicals found in cigarette smoke that damage tissue in areas of high acid production such as the stomach lining.

Peptic ulcer symptoms include:

• A burning feeling or discomfort in the stomach region, commonly between the navel and the breastbone.
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating or feeling full quickly while eating.
• Weight loss
• Black, tarry stools (indicating bleeding in the digestive tract).

• Physical Exam: The doctor will check for signs and symptoms of PUD, such as abdominal tenderness or discomfort, nausea and vomiting, bloating and fullness after eating small amounts of food.
• Endoscopy: This test involves inserting a thin lighted tube into the stomach to view the lining for any abnormalities including ulcers or growths.
• Blood Tests: These tests may be used to rule out other conditions such as anemia or infection that could be causing similar symptoms to those associated with PUD.
• X-Ray: An x-ray may be used to assess any blockage in the stomach which could be causing pain associated with PUD.
• Urea Breath Test: This test measures levels of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori which can cause peptic ulcers if present in high levels within the stomach lining.

• Perforation: An ulcer can erode through the wall of the stomach or duodenum, leading to infection and peritonitis or inflammation of the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity.
• Obstruction: If a peptic ulcer becomes large enough, it may block off part of the intestine and lead to obstruction, which can cause pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Stenosis: Peptic ulcers can cause narrowing of a portion of the gastrointestinal tract due to scar tissue formation in response to acid in the digestive tract. This may lead to difficulty swallowing food or liquids as well as vomiting.
• Gastric Outlet Obstruction: In some cases, peptic ulcers can cause narrowing at the opening from your stomach into your small intestine, leading to difficulty passing digested food through this area (gastric outlet obstruction).
• Bleeding: Bleeding from the ulcer can occur, leading to anemia and potentially requiring a blood transfusion.

• Ginger: Ginger helps to reduce inflammation, boosts digestion, and reduces pain and discomfort associated with ulcers. For best results, make a tea by boiling fresh ginger root in water or adding freshly grated ginger to warm water.
• Aloe vera: The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera aid to treat peptic ulcers and decrease inflammation in the lining of the stomach. Additionally, it helps to neutralise the acid that is produced in the stomach, which prevents additional damage to the lining of the stomach. For optimum effects, drink aloe vera juice twice a day.
• Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and may be used to treat peptic ulcers. Curcumin, its key component, helps to decrease inflammation, improve digestion, and alleviate discomfort associated with ulcers. Add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to warm milk or water and drink twice daily for best results.
• Fennel Seeds: Fennel seeds are rich in antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation and soothe digestive problems associated with peptic ulcers. Boil one teaspoon of fennel seeds in one cup of water for five minutes then strain and drink it three times daily for best results.

• Eat foods that are high in fiber, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Select low-fat or fat-free dairy products like skim milk or yoghurt.
• Incorporate lean proteins into your diet, such as eggs, fish, beans, and skinless chicken.

• Avoid foods and beverages that are spicy, high in fat, or acidic such as tomatoes and tomato-based products, citrus fruits and juices, caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, and alcohol.
• Limit intake of processed or fried foods and red meat.
• Limit your consumption of dairy items such milk, butter, cream cheese, and ice cream.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin should be avoided.

• Lifestyle changes: Diet modification is important for treating PUD. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day can also help reduce symptoms by allowing the stomach more time to digest food before producing more acid. Rest and exercise may relieve stress, which can increase PUD symptoms.
• Medications: They are also commonly used to treat PUD without surgery.
• Endoscopic Surgery: Endoscopic surgery uses an endoscope, which is a long flexible tube with a camera and light on the end, to examine the area of the stomach that is affected by Peptic Ulcer Disease. During this procedure, any ulcers or other damaged tissue can be removed or repaired using special tools inserted through the endoscope.
• Open Surgery: Open surgery involves making larger incisions in your abdomen and operating directly on your stomach wall to remove any diseased tissue or ulcers that are present. This procedure may require scarring but can be highly effective in treating Peptic Ulcer Disease when other treatments have failed.
• Laparoscopic Surgery: This procedure involves making small incisions in the abdomen and inserting a tiny camera, called a laparoscope, to look for any abnormal tissues or ulcers. The surgeon will then remove any diseased tissue or ulcers and can also repair the stomach lining if needed.enum.

A doctor who specializes in gastroenterology or internal medicine should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of Peptic Ulcer Disease.

• Antacids: Antacids help to neutralize the acid in the stomach, providing quick relief from symptoms such as heartburn. Examples are Aluminum hydroxide, Calcium carbonate, Magnesium hydroxide.
• H2 blockers: H2 blockers reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach, providing longer lasting relief from symptoms. Examples include Famotidine (Pepcid) and Nizatidine (Axid).
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs are the most effective medications available for treating peptic ulcers, reducing stomach acid production and helping to heal ulcers quickly and effectively.
• Sucralfate: Sucralfate coats and protects ulcers, helping to promote healing and reduce pain and discomfort caused by peptic ulcers.

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) recovery time is determined by variables such as the severity of the problem and the kind of therapy used.

Generally, it can take anywhere between 2-8 weeks to recover from PUD. This includes time for healing and resolving symptoms.

In some cases, it may take longer to achieve full recovery, depending on the individual's circumstances.

Generally, following a successful treatment plan, symptoms of peptic ulcer disease should decrease significantly and may even be eliminated completely.

Some people may experience recurrences or flare-ups of their condition, but these can usually be managed with lifestyle changes and/or medication.

• Take prescribed medications as directed by your doctor: This includes antibiotics to treat any infection, proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid production, and drugs to reduce inflammation and heal the ulcers.
• Follow a balanced diet that is low in fat and sugar: Eat a variety of foods including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking can aggravate ulcers and slow healing time.
• Get regular exercise: Exercise helps improve circulation to the digestive tract, which can help aid in healing.
• Practice stress-relieving activities such as yoga or meditation: Stress can increase stomach acid production and worsen symptoms of peptic ulcer disease; reducing stress levels can help reduce symptoms and aid in healing.

Costs might vary anywhere from a few hundred rupees to several thousand rupees overall.

Treatment costs also depend on whether medications or surgeries are necessary, as well as any follow-up care and tests.

Treatments for peptic ulcer disease can cause Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache, Skin rash, Dizziness and Fatigue.

If you are suffering from any complications relating to peptic ulcer disease then you should consult a doctor nearby as they can cause complications like perforation, obstruction, stenosis, etc. in which treatment course can range from a few months to years depending on the severity of the situation.