Stomach pain comes and goes, but how can you tell if it's already a serious condition? People with severe stomach pain commonly say they have ulcer, but what is ulcer exactly and how do you know if you have it?
What is an ulcer?
Peptic ulcer is an open sore that can be found in the stomach or in the first part of the small intestine, called duodenum. The digestive tract is covered by a mucous layer that usually protects it from acid. However, if your body is unable to control the acid production in your stomach, then it is probable that you will suffer from ulcer.
What causes ulcer?
Ulcers are quite common and can develop in both children and adults. Often, ulcers are caused by bacterial infections that affect the lining of the stomach. An unhealthy lifestyle can lead to peptic ulcers since this can harm your digestive system.
Some known risk factors include:
- Smoking (nicotine triggers acid production)
- Drinking alcoholic beverages
- Improper and prolonged intake of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
- Chronic severe stress or illness that leads to decrease intake of food
What are common ulcer symptoms?
How can you differentiate normal stomach pain from ulcer? People with peptic ulcers regularly feel a burning sensation in their stomach area. Other usual signs to watch out for include:
- Feeling bloated after eating
- Burping
- Nausea or vomiting
- Heartburn
Manifestations of ulcers can be different for some patients. It is essential that you do not self-medicate and consult a doctor should symptoms persist.
How do you get diagnosed?
Your physician may recommend some tests should you exhibit symptoms of ulcer. He/she will ask questions about your family medical history, your usual medicine intake, and your overall daily lifestyle. A breath sample may be taken by your doctor to see if the bacterium H. pylori is present. Remember to not take any form of medication like antacids beforehand to avoid a false negative result. In some cases, an endoscopy or an x-ray of your upper digestive system may be recommended.
Consult your doctor about taking vitamins that can give you the right amount of nutrition that you need for the day. Keep in mind that taking health supplements should be supported by a healthy diet and an active lifestyle to help boost your immunity against illnesses.
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.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peptic-ulcer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354229
- https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/ulcers.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10350-peptic-ulcer-disease
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/stomach-and-duodenal-ulcers-peptic-ulcers
- https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hw217846
