◎What is a Peptic Ulcer?
A peptic ulcer refers to the erosion of the surface tissues in the stomach, duodenum, or other parts of the gastrointestinal mucosa caused by gastric acid.
◎Who is prone to develop Peptic Ulcers?
- Individuals with emotional instability and a tendency to be anxious and nervous.
- Those with poor dietary habits, irregular meal patterns, and overeating.
- People who smoke or consume alcohol excessively.
- Individuals taking certain medications such as aspirin, steroids, etc.
- Individuals with a family history of ulcers are more susceptible.
◎What are the symptoms of Peptic Ulcers?
- Upper abdominal pain originating from the ulcer site.
- Most patients experience burning sensation, dull pain, bloating, hunger pangs, and sometimes severe pain.
- Some patients may experience nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, acid reflux, and regurgitation.
- Severe cases may involve symptoms like black stools, vomiting blood, gastric perforation, or pyloric obstruction.
◎Differences between Gastric Ulcers and Duodenal Ulcers:
- Duodenal Ulcers: Excessive gastric acid secretion.
- Gastric Ulcers: Normal or reduced gastric acid secretion.
Pain Occurrence:
- Duodenal Ulcers: Pain is prominent when hungry.
- Gastric Ulcers: Pain is prominent after a meal.
◎How to maintain daily life?
- Maintain a regular and pleasant lifestyle. Adequate sleep promotes ulcer healing and prevents recurrence.
- Quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Peptic ulcers have a high recurrence rate, so it is important not to stop medications once symptoms disappear. Medications should be taken according to the doctor’s instructions.
- Avoid taking over-the-counter drugs without proper guidance. Cold medicines, sedatives, and other medications can harm the stomach. It is best to take them after meals or together with stomach medications.
- Develop good eating habits. Have regular and moderate meals, and chew food slowly.
- Rest for 30 minutes before and after meals.
- Avoid extreme temperatures, rough fibers, and raw foods. Stay away from stimulants such as cigarettes, alcohol, coffee, and spicy seasonings.
- In case of emergencies such as vomiting blood, worsening abdominal pain, or black stools, seek immediate medical attention by returning to the hospital.
Last Updated on 2023 年 7 月 7 日 by 3535
