Overview of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) refers to painful sores or ulcers that form in the lining of the stomach, the lower esophagus, or the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). These ulcers occur when stomach acid damages the protective lining of the digestive tract. Most often, they're caused by a bacterial infection (H. pylori) or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If left untreated, peptic ulcers can lead to serious complications like internal bleeding or perforation of the stomach wall.

Types of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Gastric Ulcer: Develops on the inner lining of the stomach.

Duodenal Ulcer: Forms in the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

Esophageal Ulcer: Occurs in the lower part of the esophagus.

Stress Ulcer: Triggered by physical stress, often seen in hospitalized patients.

Refractory Ulcer: Doesn't heal after 8-12 weeks of treatment.

Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Persistent burning or gnawing pain in the stomach, especially between meals or at night.

Nausea or vomiting, sometimes with blood.

Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.

Feeling of bloating or fullness, even after small meals.

Dark, tarry stools, indicating internal bleeding.

Heartburn or acid reflux-like symptoms.

Fatigue due to blood loss in bleeding ulcers.

Causes of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection – a common bacterial cause.

Long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen.

Excess stomach acid production (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome).

Smoking, which delays healing of ulcers.

Alcohol consumption irritating the stomach lining.

Stress and spicy foods don’t directly cause ulcers but may worsen symptoms.

Complications in Peptic Ulcer Disease

Bleeding ulcer leading to anemia or black stools.

Perforation of the stomach or intestinal wall, requiring emergency surgery.

Gastric outlet obstruction, causing vomiting and weight loss.

Peritonitis, a life-threatening infection from a perforated ulcer.

Increased risk of stomach cancer, especially with H. pylori infection.

Risk Factors of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Frequent NSAID use or over-the-counter painkillers.

H. pylori infection without treatment.

Smoking and alcohol abuse.

Age above 60, increasing susceptibility.

Family history of ulcers.

Existing liver, kidney, or lung disease.

Preventions of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Avoid frequent use of NSAIDs or take them with food.

Treat H. pylori infections promptly with antibiotics.

Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.

Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

Eat balanced meals and avoid skipping meals.

Use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) if on long-term NSAIDs.