Peptic ulcer disease

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Benign gastric ulcer

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a condition characterized by the formation of sores or holes in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), causing burning pain in the gut. Most ulcers are caused by an infection with a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori); other causes include long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen), alcohol, and tobacco.

Pathophysiology

Peptic ulcers result from an imbalance between the factors that protect the lining of the stomach and duodenum and the factors that promote injury to these structures. Protective factors include mucus and bicarbonate secretion, which form a barrier against the acidic gastric contents. Injurious factors include acid and pepsin secretion, as well as H. pylori infection, which can cause inflammation and weaken the protective barrier.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Helicobacter pylori infection: Most cases of peptic ulcer disease are caused by H. pylori, a type of bacteria that can colonize the stomach and duodenum. The bacteria produce urease, an enzyme that neutralizes stomach acid and allows them to survive in the acidic environment. H. pylori also produce toxins and inflammatory proteins that contribute to ulcer formation.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Long-term use of NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, can increase the risk of peptic ulcers by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the gastrointestinal mucosa.
• Alcohol and tobacco: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can increase the risk of peptic ulcers by impairing the protective mechanisms of the gastrointestinal mucosa and promoting the secretion of gastric acid.
• Stress: Although stress does not directly cause peptic ulcers, it may exacerbate existing ulcers or increase the risk of developing ulcers in individuals with other risk factors.
• Genetics: A family history of peptic ulcers may increase an individual's susceptibility to the disease.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of peptic ulcer disease include:

• Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often relieved by eating or taking antacids
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Fatigue

In some cases, peptic ulcers can cause more severe symptoms, such as:

• Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools (indicating gastrointestinal bleeding)
• Sudden, sharp abdominal pain (indicating a perforated ulcer)
• Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck (indicating an obstructing ulcer)

Diagnosis

Peptic ulcer disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, which may include:

• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth and down the esophagus to visualize the stomach and duodenum, allowing the detection of ulcers and potential bleeding or complications.
• Helicobacter pylori testing: Several tests can detect H. pylori infection, including breath tests, blood tests, stool tests, and tissue samples obtained during an endoscopy.
• Upper gastrointestinal series: Also known as a barium swallow, this diagnostic imaging test involves swallowing a liquid containing barium, which coats the stomach and small intestine and allows them to be visualized on X-rays.

Treatment

Treatment for peptic ulcer disease depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:

• Antibiotics: If H. pylori infection is the cause of the ulcer, a combination of antibiotics is usually prescribed to eradicate the bacteria.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce the production of stomach acid and promote healing of the ulcer. Examples of PPIs include omeprazole, lansoprazole, and pantoprazole.
• Histamine H2-receptor antagonists: These drugs, such as ranitidine, famotidine, and cimetidine, also reduce stomach acid production but are generally less potent than PPIs.
• Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and provide temporary relief from ulcer pain.
• Cytoprotective agents: Medications such as sucralfate and misoprostol can help protect the stomach lining and promote healing.
• Lifestyle modifications: Patients with peptic ulcer disease are advised to avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and reduce their use of NSAIDs.

Complications

Untreated or improperly managed peptic ulcer disease can lead to serious complications, including:

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: Ulcers can erode blood vessels in the stomach or duodenum, leading to bleeding that may require hospitalization and blood transfusion.
• Perforation: An ulcer can perforate the wall of the stomach or duodenum, causing stomach contents to leak into the abdominal cavity and potentially leading to a life-threatening infection (peritonitis).
• Gastric outlet obstruction: Swelling and scarring from an ulcer can obstruct the passage of food through the digestive tract, leading to vomiting, weight loss, and dehydration.

Prevention

Preventing peptic ulcer disease primarily involves addressing the risk factors for the condition. Strategies for prevention include:

• Regular handwashing and proper food handling to reduce the risk of H. pylori infection
• Limiting the use of NSAIDs, and using the lowest effective dose if necessary
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and counseling

Peptic ulcer disease Resources
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