“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a condition characterized by sores or ulcers that develop on the lining of the stomach, esophagus, or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The most common cause of PUD is infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), although prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to the development of ulcers.
Symptoms of PUD can include abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea, vomiting, bloating, loss of appetite, and weight loss. These symptoms may be worse on an empty stomach and improve with eating. In severe cases, PUD can cause complications such as bleeding, perforation (a hole in the wall of the stomach or duodenum), or obstruction (blockage of the digestive tract).
Diagnosis of PUD typically involves an upper endoscopy, in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth and down into the stomach and duodenum to examine the ulcers and take tissue samples for biopsy. Other tests, such as a breath test for H. pylori or blood tests to measure stomach acid levels, may also be performed.
Treatment of PUD usually involves a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications. Antibiotics are used to treat H. pylori infection, and acid-suppressing drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers, can help to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and promote healing of the ulcers. In cases where NSAID use is the cause of the ulcers, switching to a different medication or reducing the dosage may be necessary. Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding tobacco and alcohol and eating smaller, more frequent meals, may also be recommended.
With appropriate treatment, most people with PUD can expect a complete recovery. However, long-term follow-up may be necessary to monitor for recurrent ulcers or complications.