Peptic Ulcers in Baton Rouge, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is a peptic ulcer?
A common digestive health concern, peptic ulcers are open sores or ulcerations in the stomach or upper small intestine that may result in pain, discomfort, and bleeding. The cells that line the stomach are surrounded by a mucus layer that helps reduce the risk of stomach damage. If this protective structure within the stomach or small bowel is damaged, then the acid from the stomach erodes the tissue located behind the protective structure.
While any individual can experience peptic ulcers, some patients may have an increased risk if they are 50 or older or if peptic ulcers run in their family. The digestive health physicians at Gastroenterology Associates offer experienced care for this type of medical issue. If you need treatment for peptic ulcers in Baton Rouge, LA, please contact our team today to set up a consultation.
What are the causes of peptic ulcers?
As discussed above, a peptic ulcer occurs when the tissue in the small bowel or stomach is exposed to pepsin, which is commonly called stomach acid. Pepsin then starts to erode the organ’s tissue. There are two primary reasons, however, why stomach lining erosion occurs.
Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori, often known as H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can enter your system in a number of ways. But when the bacteria enters, it can invade the mucus layer in the stomach. This leads to holes in that protective layer and can create ulcers. If H. pylori is detected, a practitioner can prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate the destructive bacteria.
Pain relievers
Specific types of pain relievers, like aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can block your body from producing a chemical substance that functions to help protect the internal walls of your small bowel and stomach.
Other variations of pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), do not cause the development of ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. That is why healthcare practitioners recommend utilizing pain relievers in small and controlled dosages.
Other risk factors
Additional factors that elevate the risk of developing ulcers in the stomach or small intestine include:
- Alcohol consumption
- Tobacco use
- Stress
- Consuming foods that are spicy or acidic
- Regular use of NSAIDs
Our Baton Rouge, LA gastroenterologists are trained to recognize the symptoms of peptic ulcers and help pinpoint what might be causing the gastrointestinal condition.
What are common symptoms of peptic ulcers?
Because peptic ulcers are largely open sores in the small intestine or stomach, people often have discomfort and burning pain in the abdominal region when this condition has developed. Other commonly experienced symptoms of peptic ulcers are:
- Decreased appetite
- Presence of blood in the stool
- Acid reflux and heartburn
- Nausea
- Intolerance to fatty food
- Unintentional weight loss
- Vomiting
- Burping
- Bloating
If you experience blood in your stool or if you vomit, please contact your provider without delay. If you are affected by any combination of the symptoms mentioned above or take over-the-counter antacids that soothe your pain, but the pain comes back, it may be time to request a consultation with a digestive health specialist at Gastroenterology Associates at your earliest convenience.
What are the treatments for peptic ulcers?
With proper care, peptic ulcers can be addressed and can heal over time. Treatments for peptic ulcers might involve:
- Decreasing the use of specific types of pain medications
- Cytoprotective agents (medication to protect the lining of the small intestine and stomach)
- Antibiotics to kill Helicobacter pylori
- Endoscopic procedures to cauterize bleeding arteries
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid
- Surgery
- Acid-reducing medication (H-2 blockers)
Find treatment for peptic ulcers
Our GI doctors offer peptic ulcer treatment in Baton Rouge, LA and are ready to help you experience life with less discomfort. Please call Gastroenterology Associates to discover your treatment options and learn how we can help improve your quality of life. Request a consultation at your nearest location today.
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