stomach

Stomach ulcer also referred to as gastric ulcer are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. It is different from duodenal ulcer The stomach produces a strong acid (gastric acid) to help digest food and protect against microbes. However it  also produces a thick mucus to help protect the tissues from this acid. The wearing out of this mucus causes injury to the stomach lining which then leads to an ulcer. Causes of ulcer The most common causes of gastric ulcer are Infection with the bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) Long term use of NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) which are a group of pain relievers (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac etc.) H.pylori can be transmitted from person to person by mouth. Examples include through kissing or through food and water that gets contaminated with the bacteria from an infected person’s stool. This is quite common in poorly developed neighborhoods without access to clean drinking water It is also important to note that stress and spicy foods do not cause ulcer but could aggravate the symptoms. The same applies to alcohol and caffeine containing drinks which though don’t cause ulcer can increase acid production which isn’t good for a person with ulcer. Symptoms of stomach ulcer Most individuals who have ulcers tend to experience indigestion, heartburn, pain or swelling in the stomach etc. This is slightly different from chest pain due to angina What clinical tests can diagnose stomach ulcer? The tests that can be carried out to determine if a person has a stomach ulcer include; Blood and stool analysis Endoscopy Urea breath test Treatment of ulcer Ulcer like many other illnesses can be treated and managed with medications and lifestyle modifications. Drugs used in ulcer management Proton pump inhibitors: Omeprazole, Rabeprazole H2 Receptor Antagonists: Cimetidine, Ranitidine Antacids containing Magnesium and Aluminum Antibiotics: Amoxicillin, Clarithromycin Earlier we talked about H. pylori been the cause of some ulcers. Most times such ulcers are managed using a mix of drugs from those listed above and it’s called triple therapy. Do well to consult your physician to get the drug(s) most suited to the kind of ulcer you have. Self-medication is strongly discouraged. Lifestyle Modifications These are really important and help ensure that the medications produce the needed results. Therefore patients are always encouraged to continue lifestyle modifications even after the ulcer symptoms are gone to prevent a recurrence. They include: Quitting smoking Drink less alcohol or caffeine Eating less of spicy foods Eating fiber containing foods and probiotics Avoiding NSAIDs Trying to get enough rest and sleep. As an ulcer patient, it is important to let your Pharmacist know especially when you want to get pain relieving drugs. Prevention of stomach ulcer Now let’s talk prevention. Recurring stomach ulcers increase the risk of stomach cancer so prevention is really important and these few routine tips are essential. Wash your hands with soap and water on the regular basis. Wash your vegetables and fruits thoroughly. Ensure you properly cook all foods. Do not take NSAIDs on empty stomach and always adhere to recommended dosage. Pharm. Anthonia Ebije (B.Pharm UPH)