Ulcer, gastrointestinal
About Ulcer, gastrointestinal
Erosion in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. The most common types are duodenal ulcers (the first part of small intestine) and gastric ulcers (stomach). An infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can cause ulcers. Other causes include use of aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and rare conditions that cause very excessive production of stomach acid (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). Duodenal ulcers are almost always non-cancerous. Stomach ulcers may be caused a cancer. A duodenal ulcer is also called peptic ulcer.Symptoms
Upper abdominal pain. Bleeding ulcers can result in vomiting blood, black stools (melena), weak pulse, pale color, lightheadedness, fainting. Rarely ulcers can be deep and lead to perforation causing severe abdominal pain.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. The best method to confirm a duodenal or stomach ulcer is esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), also called upper endoscopy. Other tests may include a stool antigen test for H. pylori and/or a blood test for antibodies against H. pylori.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Initial therapy consists of stopping aspirin and all NSAIDs, avoiding smoking and a strong acid blocker, usually a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as omeprazole/Prilosec, pantoprazole/Protonix, lansoprazole/Prevacid. During endoscopy, a biopsy may be taken to rule out cancer and look for H. pylori. Electricity may be applied to cauterize a bleeding ulcer. Treatment of a bleeding ulcer requires vigorous intravenous fluids and potentially red blood cell transfusions. If an H. pylori infection is identified, medications to kill the bacteria will be given.Medical specialties
Gastroenterology · Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric Gastroenterology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Ulcer, gastrointestinal.