Taking Another Look at Ulcers
Gastroenterologists
at Jefferson Medical Associates have treated hundreds of patients
over the years for stomach ulcers. There are some common beliefs
that have been proven untrue, including the belief that spicy
foods and stress cause ulcers. Researchers have known for several
years that this is false. These things may aggravate an ulcer.
But, more often the cause is a bacteria which commonly lives
in the stomach. This bacteria, Heliobacterpylori, (H. pylori)
can weaken the stomach's protective coating, allowing stomach
acid to harm the stomach's lining and cause a sore, or ulcer.
H. pylori can be transmitted from person to person through food
handling and poor sanitation. The bacteria also can be found
in unclean drinking water. Treating it with antibiotics and acid
reducers generally cures these ulcers.
Another Culprit
About 20 percent of people with ulcers do not have H. pylori.
Their ulcers are the result of taking too much aspirin or anti-inflammatory
drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. These common pain
relievers, when taken too often, can allow stomach acid to erode
the lining and cause an ulcer. Acetaminophen does not lead to
ulcers.
Possible Prevention
There are no absolute ways to prevent the spread of H. pylori.
But, experts recommend that people:
- wash hands thoroughly
- make sure food has been prepared properly
- drink water from a clean source.
To prevent ulcers from pain relievers:
- try a different pain reliever, such as acetaminophen
- talk with your doctor about changing the dose or how often you need to take it.
How do you know if you have an ulcer? Some of the common signs are: burning pain in the stomach, usually when it's empty; nausea; vomiting; black, tarry stools; and loss of appetite.
The earlier you get help, the easier the ulcer is to treat. If you have an ulcer, it helps to:
- take the medications that your doctor gives you
- avoid smoking--it makes it difficult for an ulcer to heal
- avoid alcohol
- know which foods may bother your symptoms--sugar and caffeine can increase stomach acid, while salt can irritate the stomach.
For more information, call South Central's Health Information Line at 399-0506.
 |
 |
 |
| Carolyn H. Cegielski, DO | Jesse H. Ezzell, Jr., MD | Stephen P. Johnson, DO |
[HOME]