Gastric ulcer, also known as a peptic ulcer or stomach ulcer, is a sore that forms in the tissue that lines the stomach, caused by several factors, such as poor diet or infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), for example. .
The presence of this ulcer causes certain symptoms, such as stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, especially after eating, although it may also not show symptoms for a long time. The presence of an ulcer is usually not a very serious situation and should be treated with antacid medications, which prevent gastric juice present in the stomach from further enlarge the wound.
- Symptoms of gastric ulcer sometimes worsen after eating.
- Even when the person is using medications that control digestion.
- The main symptoms of gastric ulcer are:.
It is also important to remember that in addition to the gastric ulcer, a duodenal ulcer, located in the first part of the intestine, can form, which usually causes symptoms during fasting periods or during the night. Learn to recognize the symptoms of gastric ulcer.
Diagnosis of gastric ulcer is made by the gastroenterologist or family doctor based on the person’s assessment of signs and symptoms, as well as high digestive endoscopy to identify the cause and check the extent and severity of the ulcer. .
To perform the endoscopy, your doctor will place a tube, with a microchamber at the end, inside the person’s mouth to your stomach, which can clearly visualize the inner walls of your stomach and its lesions, and if necessary, you can take a small sample of the tissue so that it can be sent to the lab for biopsy. Understand how the endoscopy is done and how to prepare for the exam.
Gastric ulcers form when the stomach is vulnerable to its own acidity, when its defenses weaken, and this can occur mainly by:
In addition, an unbalanced diet, rich in fats, sugars, and irritating foods, such as caffeine or pepper, can worsen symptoms and progression of ulcers and other gastric diseases, such as reflux. Learn about the other causes of ulcers.
The treatment of gastric ulcers is based on the use of drugs that reduce heartburn, such as antacids or acid blockers, such as omeprazole, pantoprazole, lansoprazole or esomeprazole, for example, even during pregnancy. Your doctor may also recommend pain relievers if needed. If endoscopy indicates an H. pylori infection, your doctor may recommend the use of antibiotics, such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin.
It is also important for people to pay attention to food, giving preference to cooked fruits, vegetables, cereals, light dairy, bread and lean meats, and avoiding very hot foods, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, sandwiches, fast food, frying and sweets in general. It is also recommended to avoid using cigarettes and eating foods that favor the release of stomach acids, such as coffee, black tea, matte, condiments, hot sauces and acidic fruits such as cashews, oranges, lemons and pineapples. See what food should look like in case of gastric ulcer.
An excellent home treatment for gastric ulcers is to drink the pure juice of a potato a day, preferably fasting, taking it immediately after preparation. Potatoes are a natural, uninsured antacid that is very effective in gastritis and ulcers. Check out this and other home remedies recipes for gastric ulcer.