When someone develops intermittent abdominal pain after eating, an ulcer may be the culprit. Ulcers can also cause discomfort and pain when the individual has an empty stomach too, especially when consuming substances that irritate the stomach lining. Coffee, alcohol and certain medications are examples. This person will want to schedule an appointment with one of the Gastrointestinal Doctors Petal MS has available for diagnosis and treatment.
Peptic Ulcers
If the patient has a peptic ulcer, it is situated in either the stomach lining or in the small intestine. The first is medically known as a gastric ulcer and the second as a duodenal ulcer. Both are open sores, explaining why they are painful. A person may have more than one ulcer at the same time. This will be diagnosed by Gastrointestinal Doctors Petal MS has available, after which the proper treatment can begin.
Symptoms
Pain connected with ulcers can be intense with a sensation of burning. People also may feel overly full and bloated after eating a reasonable amount of food. Unintended weight loss may begin because these individuals are nervous about eating. Heartburn is another symptom, as is feeling nauseated for no apparent reason. Scheduling an appointment with a healthcare practice such as Hattiesburg G.I. Associates is advisable.
Causes and Treatments
Proper treatment depends on the cause of the ulcer. Most patients are advised to take an acid-reducing medication for at least a few months, which allows the sores to heal. Proton pump inhibitors are very effective at lowering stomach acid levels. If the problem was caused by helicobacter pylori bacteria, a course of antibiotics will eliminate those microorganisms. The patient may want to take probiotics that replenish friendly bacteria in the gut.
H. pylori bacteria are the most common cause of ulcers. However, others occur because of taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen. They stop the body from producing a chemical that protects the lining of the stomach and small intestine from stomach acid, which is a harsh substance. Drinking alcohol is also a risk factor for ulcers. Stress does not cause ulcers but can worsen them. Anyone who wants to set an appointment may Browse website to get started.
