Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) in New Orleans, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is peptic ulcer disease (PUD)?
Peptic ulcer disease is a condition where open sores or ulcerations form in the stomach (known as a gastric ulcer) or upper small intestine (referred to as a duodenal ulcer) and often lead to pain, discomfort, and bleeding. The variation of cells that make up the stomach lining is surrounded by a layer of mucus that helps guard the stomach against damage. When the protective lining within the small intestine or stomach is compromised, then the acid from the stomach erodes and damages the tissue behind the protective structure.
Although anybody can experience peptic ulcers, some people may have a greater risk if they have a family history of peptic ulcers or are 50 years or older. The GI providers at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates offer expert care for this type of issue. If you require treatment for peptic ulcer disease in New Orleans, LA, please call us right away to request an appointment with a GI specialist in your community.
What causes peptic ulcers?
As mentioned above, a peptic ulcer develops when the small intestine or stomach's organ tissue comes into contact with pepsin, or the substance commonly referred to as stomach acid. This acid then erodes the organ’s tissue. There are two causative factors, however, behind why the stomach's protective lining becomes eroded.
Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori, frequently known simply as H. pylori, is a bacteria that can enter a person's body in several ways, but when the bacteria enters, it can damage the protective mucus lining of the stomach. This causes openings in that protective layer and can cause ulcerations. If helicobacter pylori is present, your GI specialist could prescribe antibiotics to help destroy the destructive bacteria.
Pain relievers
Some types of pain relievers, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, can block your body from producing a chemical substance that functions to help protect the internal walls of your stomach and small bowel.
Other forms of pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), will not contribute to the rise of small intestine and stomach ulcers. That is why medical practitioners advise taking pain relievers in controlled and small dosages.
Risk factors for peptic ulcers
Additional risk factors for experiencing gastric or duodenal ulcers include:
- Stress
- Alcohol consumption
- Regular use of NSAIDs
- Tobacco use
- Consuming foods that are acidic or spicy
What are the symptoms of peptic ulcers?
Given that peptic ulcers are essentially open sores in the stomach or small bowel, people often report a burning sensation and discomfort in the abdominal area when they occur. Other signs of peptic ulcers can include:
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Appetite loss
- Burping
- Acid reflux and heartburn
- Nausea
- Fatty food intolerance
- Bloody stool
If you experience bloody stool or are vomiting, it is important to contact your provider promptly. If you experience any combination of the symptoms mentioned above or take over-the-counter antacids that relieve your discomfort, but the discomfort returns, request a consultation with a GI specialist at a local Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates at your earliest convenience.
What are the treatment options for peptic ulcers?
With proper care, peptic ulcers can be treated and can improve over time. Treatment options for peptic ulcers can include:
- Reduce the use of certain pain relievers
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid
- Surgery
- Antibiotics to kill helicobacter pylori
- Acid-reducing medication (H-2 blockers)
- Cytoprotective agents (medication to protect the lining of the small intestine and stomach)
- Endoscopy to cauterize bleeding arteries
Get treatment for peptic ulcers
Our GI specialists provide peptic ulcer disease treatment to New Orleans, LA patients and want to help you experience life in the absence of discomfort or pain. Get in touch with a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates near you to explore your options for care and how we go above and beyond to assist our patients. Request a consultation today.
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