Gastrointestinal ulceration

Gastrointestinal ulceration refers to the development of ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. An ulcer is a break in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus, often causing pain and sometimes bleeding. The most common types of gastrointestinal ulcers are peptic ulcers, which include both gastric ulcers (occurring in the stomach) and duodenal ulcers (occurring in the first part of the small intestine).

Causes

Gastrointestinal ulceration can be caused by a variety of factors. The most significant of these include infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and the chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Other contributing factors may include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and the use of certain other medications.

Symptoms

The symptoms of gastrointestinal ulceration can vary but often include abdominal pain, particularly when the stomach is empty, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and, less commonly, vomiting blood or passing black stools, which indicates bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gastrointestinal ulceration typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests may include an endoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to view the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, and tests for Helicobacter pylori infection.

Treatment

Treatment for gastrointestinal ulceration depends on the cause. If Helicobacter pylori infection is present, a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be prescribed to eradicate the infection and reduce stomach acid, respectively. For ulcers caused by NSAIDs, cessation of the NSAID, along with the use of PPIs or H2-receptor antagonists, may be recommended. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Prevention

Preventive measures for gastrointestinal ulceration include avoiding the overuse of NSAIDs, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and managing stress. For individuals with a history of ulcers or at high risk, doctors may recommend the use of PPIs or H2-receptor antagonists as a preventive measure.