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== Ulcer ==
== Ulcer ==
[[File:Gastric_Ulcer.png|thumb|right|Diagram of a gastric ulcer.]]
An '''ulcer''' is a break in the skin or mucous membrane with loss of surface tissue, disintegration and necrosis of epithelial tissue, and often pus. Ulcers can occur on the skin or mucous membranes throughout the body, including the stomach, mouth, and intestines.


== Types of Ulcers ==
An '''ulcer''' is a break in the skin or mucous membrane with loss of surface tissue, disintegration and necrosis of epithelial tissue, and often pus. Ulcers can occur in various parts of the body, including the skin, mouth, and gastrointestinal tract. This article focuses on [[peptic ulcer disease]], particularly [[gastric ulcers]].


Ulcers are classified based on their location and cause. Some common types include:
[[File:Gastric_Ulcer.png|thumb|right|Diagram of a gastric ulcer]]


=== Peptic Ulcers ===
=== Types of Ulcers ===


Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain. Peptic ulcers include:
Ulcers are classified based on their location and cause. The most common types include:


* '''[[Gastric ulcer]]''': Occurs on the inside of the stomach.
* '''[[Gastric ulcer]]''': Occurs in the stomach lining.
* '''[[Duodenal ulcer]]''': Occurs on the inside of the upper portion of the small intestine (duodenum).
* '''[[Duodenal ulcer]]''': Occurs in the first part of the small intestine.
* '''[[Mouth ulcer]]''': Occurs in the oral cavity.
* '''[[Pressure ulcer]]''': Also known as bedsores, occur due to prolonged pressure on the skin.


=== Mouth Ulcers ===
=== Gastric Ulcers ===


Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful lesions that develop in the mouth or at the base of the gums. They can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable.
Gastric ulcers are a type of [[peptic ulcer disease]] that specifically affects the stomach lining. They are characterized by:


=== Venous Ulcers ===
* '''Location''': Typically found on the lesser curvature of the stomach.
* '''Symptoms''': Include burning stomach pain, bloating, heartburn, and nausea.
* '''Causes''': Often caused by [[Helicobacter pylori]] infection or the use of [[nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs]] (NSAIDs).


Venous ulcers are wounds that occur due to improper functioning of venous valves, usually in the legs. They are a common type of [[chronic wound]] in the lower extremities.
=== Pathophysiology ===


== Causes ==
The development of gastric ulcers involves an imbalance between aggressive factors, such as gastric acid and pepsin, and defensive factors, such as the mucosal barrier and bicarbonate secretion. [[Helicobacter pylori]] infection disrupts the mucosal barrier, leading to inflammation and ulceration.


Ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
=== Diagnosis ===


* '''[[Helicobacter pylori]] infection''': A common cause of peptic ulcers.
Diagnosis of gastric ulcers typically involves:
* '''Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)''': Such as aspirin and ibuprofen, which can irritate or inflame the lining of the stomach and small intestine.
* '''Stress and spicy foods''': While not direct causes, they can exacerbate symptoms.
* '''Smoking and alcohol''': Both can increase the risk of developing ulcers and hinder healing.


== Symptoms ==
* '''Endoscopy''': Allows direct visualization of the ulcer.
* '''Biopsy''': To rule out malignancy and test for [[Helicobacter pylori]].
* '''Urea breath test''': To detect [[Helicobacter pylori]] infection.


The symptoms of an ulcer can vary depending on the type and location, but common symptoms include:
=== Treatment ===


* Burning stomach pain
Treatment of gastric ulcers focuses on:
* Feeling of fullness, bloating, or belching
* Intolerance to fatty foods
* Heartburn
* Nausea


== Diagnosis ==
* '''Eradicating [[Helicobacter pylori]]''': Using a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
* '''Reducing acid production''': With PPIs or H2-receptor antagonists.
* '''Protecting the gastric lining''': Using agents like sucralfate.


Diagnosis of ulcers typically involves:
=== Complications ===


* '''Endoscopy''': A procedure to look inside the stomach and duodenum.
Potential complications of untreated gastric ulcers include:
* '''Barium swallow''': An X-ray exam that can help visualize the stomach and duodenum.
* '''Tests for H. pylori''': Including breath, blood, or stool tests.


== Treatment ==
* '''Bleeding''': Can lead to [[hematemesis]] or [[melena]].
 
* '''Perforation''': A hole in the stomach wall, leading to peritonitis.
Treatment for ulcers depends on the cause. Common treatments include:
* '''Gastric outlet obstruction''': Due to swelling or scarring.
 
* '''Antibiotics''': To kill H. pylori if present.
* '''Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)''': To reduce stomach acid.
* '''H2-receptor antagonists''': To reduce acid production.
* '''Antacids''': To neutralize stomach acid.
* '''Lifestyle changes''': Such as quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol.
 
== Prevention ==
 
Preventive measures include:
 
* Avoiding NSAIDs when possible.
* Limiting alcohol consumption.
* Quitting smoking.
* Eating a balanced diet.


== Related Pages ==
== Related Pages ==


* [[Gastritis]]
* [[Peptic ulcer disease]]
* [[Helicobacter pylori]]
* [[Gastroesophageal reflux disease]]
* [[Gastroesophageal reflux disease]]
* [[Inflammatory bowel disease]]
* [[Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug]]
 
== References ==
 
* "Peptic Ulcer Disease." National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
* "Ulcers." Mayo Clinic.
 
== External Links ==
 
* [https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/ NHS - Stomach Ulcer]
* [https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-ulcers-basic-information WebMD - Understanding Ulcers]


[[Category:Medical conditions]]
[[Category:Gastroenterology]]
[[Category:Gastroenterology]]
[[Category:Digestive diseases]]

Revision as of 03:56, 13 February 2025

Ulcer

An ulcer is a break in the skin or mucous membrane with loss of surface tissue, disintegration and necrosis of epithelial tissue, and often pus. Ulcers can occur in various parts of the body, including the skin, mouth, and gastrointestinal tract. This article focuses on peptic ulcer disease, particularly gastric ulcers.

File:Gastric Ulcer.png
Diagram of a gastric ulcer

Types of Ulcers

Ulcers are classified based on their location and cause. The most common types include:

Gastric Ulcers

Gastric ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer disease that specifically affects the stomach lining. They are characterized by:

Pathophysiology

The development of gastric ulcers involves an imbalance between aggressive factors, such as gastric acid and pepsin, and defensive factors, such as the mucosal barrier and bicarbonate secretion. Helicobacter pylori infection disrupts the mucosal barrier, leading to inflammation and ulceration.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gastric ulcers typically involves:

Treatment

Treatment of gastric ulcers focuses on:

  • Eradicating Helicobacter pylori: Using a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
  • Reducing acid production: With PPIs or H2-receptor antagonists.
  • Protecting the gastric lining: Using agents like sucralfate.

Complications

Potential complications of untreated gastric ulcers include:

  • Bleeding: Can lead to hematemesis or melena.
  • Perforation: A hole in the stomach wall, leading to peritonitis.
  • Gastric outlet obstruction: Due to swelling or scarring.

Related Pages

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