When people experience frequent abdominal pain, it might be suggestive of an ulcer, with some even saying it is an ulcer specifically caused by stress. But is this true? Read on to learn the real connection between ulcers and stress.
What is a peptic ulcer?
Peptic ulcer disease, or simply peptic ulcer, is an open sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine. It has two types:
- Stomach ulcer or gastric ulcer, when it occurs in the stomach
- Duodenal ulcer, when it occurs in the first part of the small intestine, or the part immediately attached to the stomach
Between five to 10% of people worldwide will experience a peptic ulcer at some point in their lives. While it can develop at any age, it is more common in middle-aged adults.
What are the symptoms of peptic ulcer?
Did you know that up to 70% of people with peptic ulcers do not experience symptoms? People who do notice their symptoms commonly report central upper abdominal pain and indigestion.
Other symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Burping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially when they are persistent, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Does stress cause peptic ulcers?
While stress has long been blamed for peptic ulcers, the relationship between the two is more complex than a simple cause-and-effect scenario.
Stress cannot directly cause peptic ulcer disease, but it may play a role in their development and progression.
There are two main causes largely responsible for peptic ulcers:
H. pylori infection
Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori for short, is a common bacteria that can inhabit the stomach and/or duodenum, the first part of the small intestine that is connected to the stomach. While many people carry this bacteria without issues, in some cases it can lead to ulcer formation.
Abuse of NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
NSAIDs are common over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin. When used as directed, NSAIDs are generally safe and unlikely to cause peptic ulcers. The risk primarily arises from misuse or overuse.
However, prolonged or excessive use can potentially lead to stomach issues. Following the recommended dosage and duration of use does not affect the risk of ulcer formation. If you find yourself needing these medications frequently or for extended periods, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
Stress and gastric ulcers
Getting stressed from time to time is usually no cause for concern. However, long-term, untreated stress may be a problem.
Here are a few links between stress and ulcers:
- When stressed, our bodies make more stomach acid. This extra acid can be tough on our stomachs, especially if we already have ulcers.
- People who are stressed often reach for painkillers like ibuprofen to deal with headaches or muscle tension. The result is that this may lead to misuse of NSAIDs and can lead to ulcers
“Stress ulcers”
The term “stress ulcer,” while popularly used, does not refer to ulcers caused by emotional or psychological stress. Rather, these refer to ulcers that develop in people under extreme physical stress, such as patients in intensive care units.
Relieving symptoms of a peptic ulcer
If you are dealing with a peptic ulcer, there are several ways to manage your symptoms and promote healing:
- Watch what you eat: Some foods can irritate your ulcer. Try to avoid or limit intake of alcohol and spicy foods.
- Use pain relievers wisely: If you need to take NSAIDs like ibuprofen, follow the instructions carefully.
- Take prescribed medications: Your doctor might prescribe medications like omeprazole. These medicines can significantly reduce stomach acid, giving your ulcer a chance to heal.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can slow ulcer healing. Furthermore, it increases the risk of peptic ulcers when you already have H. pylori infection.
- Manage stress: Manage stress to prevent it from making potential ulcers worse, or unduly affecting your stomach acid production.
While stress does not directly cause peptic ulcers, it may contribute to their formation or worsening. If you think you are suffering from stomach or peptic ulcers, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov and UNILAB Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
References:
- Peptic Ulcer Disease (Stomach Ulcers), https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/peptic-ulcer-disease , Accessed October 2, 2024
- Do You Have Peptic Ulcer Disease?, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10350-peptic-ulcer-disease, Accessed October 2, 2024
- Can Stress Cause Stomach Ulcers? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-stress-give-you-an-ulcer, Accessed October 2, 2024
- Stomach Ulcer (Gastric Ulcer), https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/stomach-liver-and-gastrointestinal-tract/stomach-ulcer#stomach-ulcer-causes, Accessed October 2, 2024
- Stress Ulcer, https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/stress-ulcer, Accessed October 2, 2024
- Peptic Ulcer, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peptic-ulcer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354229, Accessed October 3, 2024
- Stomach Ulcer, https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/stomach-liver-and-gastrointestinal-tract/stomach-ulcer#stomach-ulcer-treatment, Accessed October 3, 2024
