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Peptic ulcer disease is when the inner part of the stomach's gastric mucosa (lining of the stomach), the first part of the small intestine, or sometimes the lower esophagus, gets damaged. An ulcer in the stomach is called a gastric ulcer , while one in the first part of the intestines is a duodenal ulcer . [ 1 ]
The ulcer is known initially as a peptic ulcer before the ulcer burns through the full thickness of the stomach or duodenal wall. A diagnosis is made by taking an erect abdominal/chest X-ray (seeking air under the diaphragm). This is in fact one of the very few occasions in modern times where surgery is undertaken to treat an ulcer. [3]
[1] [2] Complications may include stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, and stomach tumors. [1] When due to autoimmune problems, low red blood cells due to not enough vitamin B12 may occur, a condition known as pernicious anemia. [3] Common causes include infection with Helicobacter pylori and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs . [1]
DeCoste explains that there are two primary causes of stomach ulcers. One is due to high dose or continued use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications , such as ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin.
Peptic ulcer disease, a wearing away of the stomach lining, can be asymptomatic in some cases, but others are severe enough to make a patient double over in pain, two doctors said.
Complications of an ulcer can cause severe signs and symptoms such as black or tarry stool indicative of bleeding into the stomach or duodenum; blood - either red or coffee-ground colored in vomit; persistent sharp or severe abdominal pain; dizziness, and a fast heartbeat. [67] [68] Bleeding is the most common complication.
Causes of gastric outlet obstruction include both benign causes, such as peptic ulcer disease affecting the area around the pylorus, and malignant causes, such as gastric cancer. Causation related to ulcers may involve severe pain which the patient may interpret as a heart condition or attack.
A Cameron lesion is a linear erosion or ulceration of the mucosal folds lining the stomach where it is constricted by the thoracic diaphragm in persons with large hiatal hernias. [1] The lesions may cause chronic blood loss resulting in iron deficiency anemia ; less often they cause acute bleeding.