Introduction
Peptic ulcers are painful sores that form in the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. These ulcers are caused by a combination of bacterial infection, certain medications, and lifestyle habits. The symptoms of peptic ulcers include abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Treatment for peptic ulcers may include antibiotics, over-the-counter medications, and lifestyle changes.
Definition
Peptic ulcers are sores that form in the inner lining of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. These sores are usually caused by an infection of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, the use of certain medications, or lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol.
History
The discovery of peptic ulcers began in the late 19th century with the work of German physician Rudolf Virchow. Virchow recognized that ulcers were caused by external factors, rather than by an internal bacterial infection. In the early 20th century, British physician William Osler described the symptoms of peptic ulcers and suggested that the condition was caused by a bacterial infection.
In 1982, Australian researchers Barry Marshall and Robin Warren discovered the link between peptic ulcers and the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. This discovery revolutionized the treatment of peptic ulcers, as antibiotics were now used to treat the infection.
Characteristics
The most common symptom of peptic ulcers is abdominal pain. This pain is usually described as a burning or gnawing sensation in the upper abdomen. Other symptoms of peptic ulcers may include heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. In some cases, people may experience black or bloody stools, which can indicate the presence of a bleeding ulcer.
Treatment
Treatment for peptic ulcers may include antibiotics, over-the-counter medications, and lifestyle changes. Antibiotics are used to treat infections caused by the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Over-the-counter medications, such as antacids and H2 blockers, can be used to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and to reduce pain. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing stress can also help to reduce symptoms of peptic ulcers.
Conclusion
Peptic ulcers are painful sores that form in the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. These ulcers are usually caused by a combination of bacterial infection, certain medications, and lifestyle habits. The symptoms of peptic ulcers include abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Treatment for peptic ulcers may include antibiotics, over-the-counter medications, and lifestyle changes.
References
Hume, A.L. (2015). Peptic Ulcer Disease. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing.
González, C.A., & Barberán, J. (2004). Ulcer history: From Virchow to Marshall and Warren. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 10(5), 613–618. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v10.i5.613
Dalvi, P. (2020). Peptic Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/peptic-ulcer