Gastroenterology Experts share Tips on how to Prevent Peptic Ulcers

1. Gastroenterology experts share tips on how to prevent Peptic Ulcers Peptic ulcers are a common health problem. They are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, oesophagus and small intestine as a result of erosion due to stomach acids. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is upper abdominal pain which can be dull, sharp or burning. Vomiting, poor appetite and nausea are some uncommon symptoms of peptic ulcer. Peptic ulcers occur when acid in the digestive tract eats away the inner surface of the oesophagus, stomach or small intestine. The acid can create a painful open sore that may bleed. Ulcers often heal with time, but that doesn’t mean they can be ignored. If left untreated, ulcers can cause serious health problems like bleeding; leaving a hole through the wall of the stomach, gastric outlet obstruction that blocks the passageway from the stomach to the small intestine. What causes Ulcers? The common causes of peptic ulcer include: Bacterial infection - Helicobacter pylori, which commonly live in the mucous layer that covers and protects tissues. Sometimes it can cause inflammation of the stomach's inner layer, producing an ulcer. Excess use of pain relievers Family History Diseases of Lung, Kidney or Liver Excess Alcohol Acidity Smoking/Tobacco

2. Symptoms: Many a times, an ulcer can go unnoticed or undiagnosed. But some of the common symptoms of ulcers are - Burning pain in the middle or upper stomach between meals or at night Severe pain in the mid to upper abdomen Bloating Heartburn Nausea or vomiting Dark or black stool (due to bleeding) Vomiting blood Tips to reduce the risk of peptic ulcers - Wash vegetables and fruits properly Wash your hands frequently and eat food that have been cooked thoroughly to avoid infections

3. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Eating vitamin-rich foods makes it easier for the body to heal the ulcers. Limit over-the-counter pain relievers. Consult a doctor for advice on safer pain relievers. Avoid smoking and other tobacco products. People who regularly smoke or use tobacco are more likely to develop peptic ulcers compared to non-smokers. Avoid alcohol consumption. Regular and heavy drinkers have a higher risk of developing peptic ulcers. If you have a chronic problem with a peptic ulcer, better to go Gastroenterology Hospital immediately.