GASTRO INTESTINAL ULCERS

DEFINITION: – These are sores or wounds that affect the inner lining of the stomach walls and upper part of the intestines (duodenum), also known as pepic ulcers

• It affects all genders, though it is more common amongst elderly men, and females aged 20 years & younger.

Types of Peptic ulcers

1. Gastric ulcers- affect the stomach walls
2. Duodenal ulcers- affect the upper part of the intestines called the duodenum.

CAUSES OF ULCERS:

1. Helicobacter pylori – bacterial infection
2. Hyper acidity due to the following;
3. Long term use of NSAIDs, e.g., Ibuprofen, diclofenac.
4. Irregular meals
5. Chronic alcohol intake and/or smoking
6. Consumption of caffein containing beverages
7. Stress

Gastric Ulcers – Signs and Symptoms

• Epigastric pain (upper stomach, just below the ribs)
• Nausea
• Heart burn
• Vomiting
• Discomfort on palpation of the upper abdomen
• Diarrhoea or constipation  

Symptoms of bleeding ulcers:

• Haematemesis
• Black stool
• Sudden weakness and dizziness
• Cold and clammy skin

Symptoms of Perforated ulcers:

• Acute abdominal pain
• Ground coffee brown vomitous
• Fever
• Shock

What to Do
Seek for medical attention incase you experience any of the above signs and symptoms.

Visit us at Urgent Care Medical Clinic for consultation and appropriate treatment of the above symptom and signs.

Complications of Ulcers:

• Perforation
• Anaemia
• Dehydration
• Shock
• Stomach cancer
• Malnutrition
• Loss of weight
• Death

Prevention:

1. Eat meals on time
2. Avoid alcohol intake and tobacco smoking
3. Limit intake of caffein containing products.
4. Avoid self-medication
5. Do not ignore ulcer symptoms