Peptic Ulcer

Mucosal layer of the Stomach

 Mucous is a thick slippery substance that is secreted by many cells of our body.  The tubes and stomach of the digestive system are lined with thick mucous.

Mucous in the Digestive System

Mucous performs several duties:

1. Since it is slippery, it helps move foodstuffs through the system.  It has lubrication properties.

2. It protects the body from the harsh acids in the stomach, and the strong bases in the beginning of the large intestine.  The tissue can not survive around these strong substances.

3. The layer of mucous, and mucous producing cells is the bodies defense against the strong acid contained in the stomach. 

4. The qadcid in the stomach helps to digest food and kill any germs that we ingest while eating or drinking.

How Ulcers form in Stomach.

If there is the slightest pin hole or gap in the protective mucous layer, the acid burns the tissue.   Once the tissue is damaged it is difficult for the body to repair the area because the acid form the stomach is so strong.

PEPTIC ULCER  

When talking about peptic ulcer, all we have to remember is that a person has a hollowed-out area or what we call excavation in the mucosal wall in the digestive tract.

Just like when you have ulcer in your mouth. It is a chronic disease and risk factors include H. pylori bacteria, cigarette smoking, alcoholism and caffeine, stress and prolong use of NSAID medications.

Ulcer's names may depend on its location. They refer to gastric, duodenal, or esophageal.

Most cases, peptic ulcer is in the duodenum the first part of the small intestine. Pain in the midepigastrium is the most common symptom which occurs 2 to 3 hours after meal. It can be relieved by food because the pyloric sphincter closes upon eating to concentrate food in the stomach.

 Management includes avoidance of foods that increases acidity like foods containing caffeine and also alcohol.

 Having a small frequent meal is also helpful. STOP smoking, have stress management with mental and physical rest will be part of your lifestyle change.

 Doctors may prescribe ranitidine, antacid and sucralfate to ease the pain. If the ulcer becomes worst, surgical management is suggested. 

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