ULCERS

An ulcer is a sore or crater in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Most ulcers develop in the stomach or in the upper part of the small intestine. Ulcers develop when something damages the protective lining of the gastrointestinal tract. This allows stomach acid and enzymes to eat away at the wall of the stomach or upper small intestine.

FACTORS THAT INCREASE THE RISK OF ULCERS

·         Regular use of aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs.

·         Smoking

·         Infection with a bacteria  called HELICOBACTER PYLORI.

SYMPTOMS OF AN ULCER

·         A burning or sharp pain in the abdomen, between the navel and the end of the breastbone

·         Pain occurs between meals and may wake you up during the night.

·         The pain can usually be relieved by eating something or taking an antacid.

·         Ulcers may also cause heartburn, nausea or vomiting.

·         Ulcers give a bloated or full feeling during or after meals.

·         Ulcers can cause bleeding in the stomach.

·         An ulcer sufferer may have dark red, black or tarry bowel movements.

·         Without treatment, ulcers may cause obstruction or break through the stomach wall.

HOW TO AVOID ULCERS

·         Avoid foods, especially alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods that seem to bring on symptoms. Milk and milk products slow healing and should be avoided.

·         Try eating smaller, more frequent meals.  If it does not  help, return to a regular diet.

·         Stop smoking. People who smoke are twice as likely to develop ulcers as nonsmokers are .Smoking also slows healing of ulcers.

·         Avoid taking aspirin except it is absolutely necessary.

·         Antacids are usually needed to neutralize stomach acid and allows the ulcer to heal.

·         Stress may slow down the healing of ulcer. Try to relax.