Peptic Ulcer With H. Pylori Infection
What Is Peptic Ulcer and How Is It Connected to H. Pylori Infection?
A peptic ulcer is a sore or an open wound that usually forms in the lining of the stomach or at the beginning of the small intestine. The ulcer is caused by an imbalance of stomach acid and enzymes. This imbalance of these chemicals can cause injury to the lining of the stomach and intestine and result in an ulcer.
H. pylori infection is a bacterial infection that is known to be the cause of many cases of peptic ulcer. H. pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that is found in the mucus that lines the stomach and small intestine. The infection irritates the lining of the stomach and intestine and can cause inflammation and ultimately lead to an ulcer. H. pylori is often the cause of peptic ulcer but is not always the sole cause.
What Are the Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer Caused by H. Pylori Infection?
The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is a burning or aching pain in the stomach area. This pain often occurs either between meals or during the night. Other symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Heartburn
How Is Peptic Ulcer And H. Pylori Infection Diagnosed?
A doctor will usually do an endoscopy to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The test may also be used to take a small tissue sample for further testing. The tissue sample will be tested to see if the patient has an infection with H. pylori. Blood tests to look for antibodies to H. pylori can also be done.
How Is Peptic Ulcer And H. Pylori Infection Treated?
The treatment for peptic ulcer caused by H. pylori infection usually involves a combination of antibiotics to kill the bacteria and medication to reduce the production of stomach acid. Other medications may also be used to reduce the irritations and relieve the pain caused by the ulcer. If the infection does not heal on its own, a doctor may recommend surgery.