Duodenal ulcers are erosions on the inner lining of the duodenum caused by H. pylori bacteria, NSAIDs, or increased stomach acid. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue. Diagnosis involves blood tests, X-rays, and endoscopic procedures. Treatment includes antibiotics, antacids, and surgery if necessary. Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can prevent future gastrointestinal problems.
A duodenal ulcer is a lesion that appears on the inner lining of the duodenum, the upper section of the small intestine. Ulcers are essentially areas of eroded tissue that have been damaged by bacteria, stomach acid, or certain medications. Duodenal ulcers are more common in the elderly, although they can potentially occur at any age. Doctors can usually treat ulcers with medications or simple surgical procedures. If a duodenal ulcer is left untreated, however, it can lead to extensive internal blood loss and serious health complications.
Most duodenal ulcers are caused by a particular type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). When bacteria are present in large numbers, they eat away at the lining of the duodenum. An ulcer can also emerge if a person regularly takes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Increased stomach acid from smoking and alcohol use has also been linked to duodenal ulcers.
Many people who have duodenal ulcers do not experience any physical symptoms. When symptoms are present, a person may notice abdominal pain, nausea, and occasional feelings of fatigue. Less commonly, an individual may experience vomiting, abnormally dark or tarry stools, and changes in appetite. As an ulcer grows, symptoms tend to worsen and become chronic. A person who believes they have an ulcer should make an appointment with a doctor to receive a thorough evaluation.
A primary care physician who suspects a duodenal ulcer usually takes a blood sample to check for H. pylori and to rule out other possible causes of the patient’s symptoms. After an initial inspection, the patient may be referred to a gastroenterologist for further testing. The specialist may do an abdominal X-ray or computed tomography to look for abnormalities in the duodenum. An endoscopic procedure may be conducted to confirm a diagnosis, during which a flexible tube containing a fiberoptic camera is inserted down the throat. The camera is aimed at the duodenum, so the gastroenterologist can clearly see an ulcer.
Treatment for a duodenal ulcer depends on its size, accompanying symptoms, and underlying cause. Prescription oral antibiotics and antacids can resolve most ulcers in about six weeks. Surgical assistance may be needed if excessive bleeding occurs or if a duodenal ulcer is unresponsive to medication. After treatment, patients are usually instructed to maintain a healthy diet and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to prevent future gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, physicians can provide information about alternatives to NSAIDs to reduce the risk of recurrent duodenal ulcers.
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