Peptic Ulcers in Northwest Arkansas
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Find a ProviderWhat is a peptic ulcer?
A common gastric concern, peptic ulcers are open sores (ulcerations) that develop in the stomach (where they are referred to as a gastric ulcer) or upper small intestine (referred to as a duodenal ulcer). The cells that line the stomach are encased in a layer of mucus that helps protect the stomach against damage. When the protective lining within the stomach or small intestine is compromised, the stomach acid leads to erosion of the tissue behind the protective lining.
While any individual can develop peptic ulcers, some patients may have a higher risk if peptic ulcers run in their family or they are age 50 or older. The gastroenterologists at GI Alliance of Arkansas offer expert care for this type of health concern. If you are seeking treatment for peptic ulcers in Arkansas, please call our office today to arrange for a visit.
What are the causes of peptic ulcers?
As previously outlined, a peptic ulcer forms when the tissue in the small bowel or stomach comes into contact with pepsin, also known as stomach acid. This acid then erodes the tissue within the organ. There are two main reasons, however, behind why the protective lining in the stomach becomes eroded.
H. pylori
Helicobacter pylori, frequently known as H. pylori, is a variation of bacteria that may enter your body in a number of ways. But when the bacteria enters, it can damage the mucus layer in the stomach. This produces holes in that protective lining which can lead to ulcerations. If H. pylori is present, a practitioner can recommend antibiotics to help eliminate the harmful bacteria.
Pain relievers
There are some pain relievers (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs medications and aspirin, for example) that can prevent your body from producing a chemical that functions to help protect the inner walls of your stomach and small intestine.
Other forms of pain medications, (e.g., acetaminophen), do not lead to the development of ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. This is one of the reasons why medical practitioners recommend taking pain relievers in controlled and small dosages.
Risk factors for peptic ulcers
Further risk factors for developing ulcers in the stomach or small intestine are as follows:
- Alcohol use
- Smoking
- Consuming foods that are acidic or spicy
- Regular use of NSAID pain medication
- Stress
Our Arkansas gastroenterologists can identify the indications of peptic ulcers and help pinpoint factors that might be causing the GI condition.
What are common symptoms of peptic ulcers?
As peptic ulcers are basically open sores in the small bowel or stomach, they are often accompanied by a burning pain and discomfort felt in the abdomen.
Further signs of peptic ulcers involve:
- Heartburn and acid reflux
- Fatty food intolerance
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Bloating
- Burping
- Bloody stool
- Vomiting
- Unwanted weight loss
In the event you have bloody stool or are vomiting, it is important to get in touch with your doctor as soon as possible. If you notice any combination of the above symptoms or use over-the-counter antacids that soothe your pain, but the discomfort comes back, set up a visit with a gastroenterology specialist at GI Alliance of Arkansas as soon as you can.
What are the treatment options for peptic ulcers?
Peptic ulcers can be treated, and they may heal with the proper medical attention. Options commonly used to treat peptic ulcers include the following:
- Cytoprotective agents (medication to protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine)
- Surgery
- Medications to reduce acid production (H-2 blockers)
- Endoscopic procedures to cauterize bleeding arteries
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid
- Antibiotics to kill H. pylori
- Reduce the use of specific types of pain relievers
Find treatment for peptic ulcers
The board-certified GI physicians at GI Alliance of Arkansas offer peptic ulcer treatment to Arkansas patients and aim to help you and your loved ones live a life without digestive discomfort. Please call one of our local providers so that you can learn more about your options for care and how we can help improve your quality of life. Request a consultation today.
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Chelsea is very professional and yet compassionate, always listens to me and my concerns! She always answers any questions that I may have in a way that I’m able to understand! I would recommend her to anyone for GI needs!
Dr. Paschal has been treating me for 4 years. I wasn't initially impressed or felt a connection. However, through the years I've come to value him and his staff with much admiration. He's the reason I'm alive today. I'm very fortunate to be his patient.
Dr Paschall is so kind, he takes time to listen and to explain. He is very thorough and helps you navigate through your illness. Strongly recommend.
They where all nice and friendly.they listen to they problems you have answer questions u have and do all they can to help you with whats going on with you I highly recommend
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