Peptic ulcers occur when the lining of the stomach or the first section of the small intestine becomes inflamed and bleeds. This condition happens when stomach acids wear away the mucus lining of the digestive system.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacterium infecting most stomach ulcer patients. H. pylori can increase stomach acid, weaken the mucus barrier, and cause digestive system irritation. Scientists speculate that it might spread via intimate contact, kissing, or consuming contaminated food or drink.
Long-term use of aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen and ibuprofen has also been associated with a higher likelihood of developing a peptic ulcer. NSAIDs block a chemical generated by the body that helps protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine from stomach acid. Other ulcer risk factors include smoking and heavy alcohol use. As they progress, the ulcers may chew a hole in the lining and become infected.
Symptoms might range from being symptom-free to excruciating agony. In some cases, the pain may last for weeks or months, while in others, it may only last a few minutes. Although a burning or gnawing pain in the stomach is the primary sign of stomach ulcers, uncommon symptoms include dental problems, dark stool, and fatigue. Internal bleeding from a peptic ulcer might need hospitalization and transfusions.
Indigestion
The term indigestion refers to a group of digestive symptoms that includes fullness or pain in the upper belly, heartburn, and nausea. Dyspepsia is the medical word for indigestion, which is typically a symptom of more severe issues like GERD, ulcers, or gallstones.
Peptic ulcers may prevent food from moving through the digestive system. This can cause general abdominal pain and affect the appetite due to fluid retention or scarring. The abdominal pain can be felt between the breastbone and the belly button. Indigestion is brought on when stomach acid touches the delicate, protective lining of the digestive tract. Acid from the stomach erodes the lining, causing irritation and inflammation that may be very unpleasant.
Most people who suffer from indigestion do not have inflammation in their gastrointestinal tract. However, in gastric ulcer patients, indigestion is caused by increased mucosal sensitivity and is thus attributed to acidity. While eating acidic foods is the most common trigger of indigestion, other variables, including smoking, drinking, alcohol, pregnancy, consuming NSAIDs, and stress, can also aggravate the complication. The symptoms of indigestion are seldom life-threatening. However, consuming enough food may be more challenging if the symptoms are solid or chronic. Sometimes, reducing stomach acid with an antacid or just eating and drinking will help alleviate the symptoms momentarily.
