Peptic ulcer diseases
Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, lower esophagus, or small intestine. They’re usually formed as a result of inflammation caused by the bacteria H. pylori, as well as from erosion from stomach acids. Peptic ulcers are a fairly common health problem.
There are three types of peptic ulcers:
- gastric ulcers: ulcers that develop inside the stomach
- esophageal ulcers:ulcers that develop inside the esophagus
- duodenal ulcers:ulcers that develop in the upper section of the small intestines, called the duodenum
Causes
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type of bacteria that can cause a stomach infection and inflammation
- frequent use of aspirin (Bayer), ibuprofen (Advil), and other anti-inflammatory drugs (risk associated with this behavior increases in women and people over the age of 60)
- smoking
- drinking too much alcohol
- radiation therapy
- stomach cancer
Symptoms
- changes in appetite
- nausea
- bloody or dark stools
- unexplained weight loss
- indigestion
- vomiting
- chest pain