STOMACH ULCER: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND PREVENTION

Stomach or gastric ulcers are generally painful sores that are found in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. It is a type of peptic ulcer disease and usually occurs when the thick layer of mucus, which protects the inner lining of the stomach is reduced and forms an open sore on an external or internal surface of the body leading to immense pain. Surgical and non-surgical are the two ways to deal with the ulcers. Both have their own set of side effects, and one needs to take expert advice from the doctors before opting for one. CAUSES

• Helicobacter pylori bacteria: H. Pylori can lead to ulcer leading to inflammation of the stomach's inner layer. It is transmitted from person to person by close contact, food and water.
• Regular use of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs like diclofenac and ibuprofen leads to inflammation of the lining of your stomach and small intestine. It is more common among older adults who take pain medications frequently.
• Other medicines:Medications such as steroids, anticoagulants and low-dose aspirin can lead to ulcers.

SYMPTOMS

• A burning sensational pain in the upper middle part of the abdomen and gets relieved only by eating something or consuming an antacid.
• Frequent burping or bloating
• Belly pain that increases immediately after eating
• Feeling of nausea/vomiting

PREVENTION

• Avoid foods such as spicy, citrus and fatty etc. as these can be irritants for your stomach.
• Quit smoking as it is one of the major factor reason for duodenal ulcers.
• Improve the quality of your life by doing yoga or exercise daily, manage stress levels in your day to day routine
• Avoid too much consumption of alcohol.
• Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may decrease your risk of irritating the lining of your stomach and thus preventing the development of ulcers.
• Wash your hands regularly and before every meal to protect you from infections.

It is believed that some foods like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, yogurt, strawberries and blueberries play a great role in fighting off the H. Pyori infection and prevents the development of ulcer in the stomach. If you think you have the stomach ulcer, these may be good foods for you to add to your diet.