Defining and Treating a Gastric Ulcer

In a normally functioning human stomach, this organ is lined with a mucosal layer which protects the tissue from the caustic acids used to break down and aid in the digestion of food. However, when you have a gastric ulcer, this means that you have an open sore or break in this protective mucosal lining.

General Causes and Symptoms

A gastric ulcer is the result of a disparity between the acid in the stomach and pepsin, an enzyme produced by the mucosal lining of the stomach. This disparity causes swelling, irritation and pain which can worsen when you take certain medications like anti-inflammatories, eat spicy foods or are under undue stress. An infection by the bacteria H. pyloris can cause a gastric ulcer or even a condition called gastritis.

You may or may not experience symptoms when you are suffering from a gastric ulcer but it is typically diagnosed based on them. Nausea is a common problem as is vomiting, particular the vomiting of both red and dark blood, depending on the severity of the condition. General malaise may occur as can unexplained weight loss and the feeling of indigestion.

Stools may appear bloody or tar-like in color and there may also be some abdominal pain with a gastric ulcer. This stomach pain may get worse a few hours after you eat or even may occur when you do not eat at all. The pain from the gastric ulcer may also keep you awake at night and you may be able to soothe it somewhat by chewing antacids or drinking cold milk.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When a gastric ulcer is suspected, an upper endoscopy or a gastroscopy which are special tests done to see if any sores in the lining of the stomach may be performed. An endoscope which has a small camera attached is inserted down your throat so that doctors can view the lining of your esophagus, duodenum and stomach lining. A biopsy may be performed as well to conclude whether or not the gastric ulcer is indeed benign and not a precursor to cancer.

In the treatment of a gastric ulcer, antibiotics are often given, especially when H. pylori are present and the cause of the problem. Medications will likely be prescribed which can reduce the amount of stomach acid produced and dietary changes are also on the menu. Avoiding pain triggers like coffee, tea, foods high in acid, aspirin, smoking and alcohol can go a long way in promoting the healing of a gastric ulcer.

Typically, a healing period of four to eight weeks is expected before the pain is totally gone and spicy foods don't bother you. Of course, if the gastric ulcer does not heal as quickly as it should, doctors may consider removing that portion of your stomach but that would be a worse case scenario.

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