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What To Know About Stomach Ulcers

Stomach ulcers occur when digestive acids damage your stomach lining. Treatment may include antibiotics, home remedies, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause.

Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are painful, open sores that develop in the stomach lining.

They occur when the thick layer of mucus that protects your stomach from digestive juices is reduced. This allows the digestive acids to eat away at the tissues that line the stomach, causing an ulcer.

Stomach ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer, which means they're related to stomach acid. The other type of peptic ulcer is called duodenal ulcer, which affects the small intestines.

Stomach ulcers may be easily cured, but they can become severe without proper treatment.

Between 80% to 90% of stomach ulcers are caused by one of the following:

Some other risk factors and underlying health conditions may also break down the mucosa that lines your stomach, exposing it to acid damage that could cause stomach ulcers. These may include:

Can eating certain foods cause stomach ulcers?

Several symptoms are associated with stomach ulcers, the severity of which depends on the severity of the ulcer.

According to the United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS), the most common symptom is a burning sensation or pain in the middle of your abdomen, between your chest and belly button.

Typically, the pain is more intense when the stomach is empty and can last for a few minutes to several hours. That said, some research suggests that pain may worsen when you start eating.

Other symptoms of stomach ulcers may include:

Talk with a doctor if you have any symptoms of a stomach ulcer. Even though discomfort may be mild, ulcers can worsen if they aren't treated. Bleeding ulcers can become life threatening.

To diagnose a stomach ulcer, a doctor will review your medical history along with your symptoms and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications you're taking.

A doctor may also order an endoscopy to look directly inside your stomach for ulcers. During this test, a doctor will insert a thin, lighted tube through your mouth and into the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. This tube has a camera to take pictures of your intestine.

A doctor can also remove a piece of stomach tissue for analysis in a lab, a procedure known as an endoscopic biopsy.

Treatment for stomach ulcers will depend on the cause and severity. Most ulcers can be treated with a prescription from a doctor, but in rare cases, surgery may be required.

Nonsurgical treatment

According to the NHS, a doctor may prescribe only PPIs if your stomach ulcers are caused by taking NSAIDs.

You'll most likely need another endoscopy within 4 to 6 weeks to check whether the stomach ulcer has properly been treated.

Surgical treatment

In very rare cases, complicated stomach ulcers will require surgery if they:

continue to return

don't heal

bleed

tear through the stomach

keep food from flowing out of the stomach into the small intestine

removal of the entire ulcer

taking tissue from another part of the intestines and patching it over the ulcer site

tying off a bleeding artery

cutting off the nerve supply to the stomach to reduce the production of stomach acid

If you have an actively bleeding ulcer, you'll likely be hospitalized for intensive treatment with endoscopy and IV ulcer medications. You may also require a blood transfusion.

Some home remedies may help relieve the symptoms and effects of stomach ulcers, including:

eating foods high in flavonoids

taking probiotics

taking aloe vera supplements

That said, it's important to note that the research on the efficacy of home remedies for stomach ulcers is limited.

A doctor may also have suggestions for things you can do at home to relieve discomfort from your ulcer.

The United Kingdom's NHS recommends speaking with a doctor if your symptoms don't go away, or if you experience:

black, tarry stools

sudden, sharp abdominal pain

If your vomit looks like blood or black coffee grounds, get immediate medical attention.

It's important to get treatment for a stomach ulcer as soon as possible. If left untreated, stomach ulcers may lead to:

bleeding ulcer

penetration, which is when the ulcer goes through the wall of the digestive tract and into another organ

perforation, which occurs when the ulcer creates a hole in the wall of the digestive tract

obstruction (blockage) in the digestive tract, which is due to swelling of inflamed tissues

The best way to help prevent stomach ulcers is to limit your intake of NSAIDs and take measures to prevent contracting H. Pylori. This may include:

If you need to take NSAIDs, be sure to follow the recommended dosage and guidance from your doctor.

Do stomach ulcers go away?

Yes, in most cases, a stomach ulcer will go away within 4 to 6 weeks with proper treatment. If left untreated, however, stomach ulcers may lead to complications like perforation, penetration, or internal bleeding.

What is the best over-the-counter medication for stomach ulcers?

A doctor may recommend antacids to help relieve stomach ulcer symptoms like heartburn, abdominal pain, and bloating.

What drink soothes an ulcer?

Consider limiting alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated beverages.

Stomach ulcers are open wounds on the lining of your stomach. They're most commonly caused by long-term use of NSAIDs or an H. Pylori infection.

Speak with a doctor if you experience symptoms like a burning sensation in the abdomen, along with bloating, nausea, and unintentional weight loss.

They could provide a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for you.

Everything You Need To Know About Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are painful areas in the mouth and gums. They range in size, and the exact symptoms of a mouth ulcer will depend on the type.

While mostly harmless, mouth ulcers can be extremely uncomfortable and make it difficult for some people to eat, drink, and brush their teeth.

Fast facts on mouth ulcers:

Most mouth ulcers are recurring nuisances that are benign.

Smoking and acidic foods can aggravate mouth ulcers.

It is important to note that a doctor or dentist should examine any new ulcer and any ulcer lasting longer than 3 weeks.

For most people, mouth ulcers will clear up within 2 weeks.

A mouth ulcer is a small, painful lesion that forms inside the mouth. They can appear as round or oval sores with a white, yellow, or gray center and a red border.

Common locations for mouth ulcers include the insides of the cheeks, lips, tongue, gums, or the roof of the mouth.

In general, mouth ulcers are benign and harmless, although they can cause discomfort. Standard ulcers appear on the inner cheeks and last for about 1-2 weeks, and most clear up with no medical intervention.

It is best to consult a doctor if mouth ulcers:

keep recurring

last longer than 3 weeks

seem different from previous mouth ulcers, for example, they are bigger or near the back of the throat

bleed or become more painful and red, as this may indicate infection

interfere with how much a person can eat or drink

Are mouth ulcers cancerous?

Mouth cancer and mouth ulcers have distinctive symptoms. However, it is best to seek medical advice for new, persistent, or generally concerning ulcers.

There are some fundamental differences between mouth ulcers and what might be cancer:

Mouth ulcers are often painful, whereas mouth cancer is not.

Mouth ulcers will clear up in about 1-2 weeks, whereas mouth cancer will not go away and will often spread.

Mouth cancer is often a mix of red and white areas or large white areas that appear on the tongue, the back of the mouth, gums, or cheeks.

Mouth cancer often links to heavy drinking or tobacco use.

Learn about what mouth cancer looks like here.

The most common type of mouth ulcer is aphthous ulcer, also known as a canker sore. They often have no specific cause.

There are three subtypes of these mouth ulcers. These are:

Minor ulcers: These ulcers are small, measuring around 5 millimeters (mm) and under, and typically heal on their own within 1–2 weeks. They are the most common type of ulcer.

Major ulcers: These are larger, deeper sores that can measure 10mm or more and may last for 5 to 10 weeks. They often leave scars but are less common than minor ulcers.

Herpetiform ulcers (HU): These appear as a cluster of small ulcers that can merge into larger lesions. They get their name because they resemble the sores associated with herpes, but they have no connection to the herpes virus and are not contagious. They are the least common type of ulcer and also typically heal within 1-2 weeks.

There are many other types of mouth sores or lesions. Some can result from injuries, infections, or systemic conditions. These include:

Oral lichen planus: Lichen planus is an immune-related condition that causes itchy rashes and white sores inside the mouth.

Leukoplakia: Leukoplakia are thickened white or gray patches in the mouth, resulting from excess cell growth.

Erythroplakia: Red patches that can develop under the tongue or behind the lower front teeth due to smoking.

Oral thrush: Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. It can occur due to a weakened immune system, diabetes, antibiotics, or certain medications.

Mouth cancer: Mouth cancer may cause persistent red or white sores or ulcers in the mouth that fail to heal naturally.

General symptoms of a mouth ulcer include a painful sore or sores on the insides of the cheeks, lips, tongue, gums, or the roof of the mouth. The pain from the sore may worsen when eating, drinking, or speaking.

The ulcer may be round or oval in shape, with a white, yellow, or gray center and a red, inflamed border.

A singular ulcer measuring less than 5mm is likely a minor ulcer. A larger sore of 10mm or above indicates a major ulcer and a cluster of tiny ulcers may be HU.

Other symptoms that may accompany a mouth ulcer include:

mild swelling or redness around the affected area

a burning or tingling sensation in the area before the sore appears

pain or irritation from certain foods, especially spicy or acidic foods

bleeding from the ulcer if it becomes irritated

Experts do not fully understand why aphthous ulcers occur. However, some things may trigger a mouth ulcer, including:

Aphthous ulcers can be a symptom of systemic conditions, such as:

To relieve the pain of a mouth ulcer and speed up recovery, a person can try the following over-the-counter (OTC) treatments and home remedies:

Topical gels and ointments: Many pharmacies sell OTC gels for mouth ulcers that contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or hydrocortisone to numb the pain and reduce inflammation.

Mouthwashes: Antiseptic or anti-inflammatory mouthwashes can prevent infection and promote healing. Options include those containing chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide.

Pain relievers: Taking acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can relieve discomfort.

Saltwater rinse: Saltwater has antibacterial properties and can help reduce swelling and keep the area clean. To do this, a person can dissolve 1 teaspoon of sea salt in warm water and rinse the mouth for 30 seconds

Coconut oil: Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and may help prevent infection. A person can try oil pulling with coconut oil by taking a spoonful and keeping it in the mouth for a few minutes. Once done, it is best to spit the oil into a bin, as it can harden and block the sink. A person should not swallow the oil and should rinse the mouth with water afterward to get rid of any oil residue.

In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe medications to ease the pain of a mouth ulcer or address the causes.

Preventing mouth ulcers involves minimizing potential triggers, maintaining good oral hygiene, and addressing any underlying health issues.

Though the appearance of an ulcer may be inevitable, there are some things people can do to lessen the severity of or reduce the number of times they suffer from an outbreak.

Some prevention methods include:

talking to a doctor about changing medications that are known to cause ulcers

avoiding foods that can either trigger or worsen symptoms

keeping the mouth clean with daily brushing and flossing

avoiding triggers known to cause outbreaks in the past

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful sores that develop inside the mouth. They often appear as round or oval lesions with a white or yellow center and a red border.

While the exact cause is unknown, triggers can include stress, minor injuries, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, or certain medical conditions like celiac disease or Crohn's disease.

Most mouth ulcers are harmless and heal on their own within 1–2 weeks, but larger or recurrent sores may require medical attention.

Treatments include over-the-counter gels, antiseptic mouthwashes, and home remedies like saltwater rinses or honey.

Preventive measures include maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding irritants like spicy foods, and addressing underlying health issues.

What Is Gastritis? Understanding Triggers, Symptoms, And Prevention

Gastritis, a condition characterised by the inflammation of the stomach lining, is a prevalent gastrointestinal issue affecting millions globally. Though often dismissed as mere stomach discomfort, untreated gastritis can lead to severe complications, including ulcers and chronic digestive problems. Understanding the common triggers and adopting effective prevention strategies is vital for maintaining stomach health.

Common Triggers of Gastritis

OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Roohi Pirzada, MBBS, Consultant Physician, Mumbai. According to her, gastritis can stem from a multitude of factors. Among the leading causes is the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. "NSAID medications should be limited to emergencies," advises Dr Pirzada. Prolonged usage of these drugs can erode the stomach lining, leading to inflammation and discomfort.

Another significant contributor is the bacterium Helicobacter pylori(H. Pylori). "H. Pylori infection is mainly the reason for gastric and duodenal ulcers," notes Dr Pirzada. This bacterial infection often goes undetected and can result in chronic gastritis if untreated.

Also read: Gastroenteritis Vs. Gastritis: How To Differentiate Between The Two?

Lifestyle factors also play a pivotal role. Excessive alcohol consumption is a common trigger. "Alcohol consumption leads to alcohol-induced gastritis," she explains. Stress, particularly after a chronic illness or surgery, is another factor that can exacerbate gastritis symptoms. "Stress, especially following a chronic illness or surgery, can lead to gastritis," Dr Pirzada adds.

Dietary habits are crucial in the onset of gastritis. Foods high in spices, oils, or acidity, such as citrus and sour foods, can irritate the stomach lining. Chronic gastritis may also develop as a result of autoimmune diseases or inflammatory disorders, which impair the body's ability to protect the stomach lining.

Also read: 7 Foods To Avoid To Cure Gastric Issues

Prevention Tips for Gastritis

Adopting lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of gastritis. Dr Pirzada highlights several actionable prevention tips:

Stress Management: Incorporating stress-busting activities such as yoga and regular exercise can help prevent gastritis. "Lifestyle changes can make a difference. Yoga and exercises help reduce stress, which in turn prevents gastritis," she states.

Avoid Triggers: Steering clear of caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and junk food is essential. High-spice and oily foods should also be limited.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking adequate water is crucial for maintaining stomach health. Proper hydration helps in the digestion process and reduces acidity.

Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller portions at regular intervals prevents the stomach from becoming overly acidic. "Hydration and small, frequent meals are effective ways to prevent gastritis," advises Dr Pirzada.

High-Fibre Diet: Including fibre-rich foods in your diet aids digestion and keeps the stomach lining healthy. Maintaining a three-hour gap between dinner and bedtime also promotes better digestion and minimises gastritis symptoms.

Use NSAIDs Sparingly: Limit the use of NSAIDs to emergencies. Overuse of these medications can damage the stomach lining and exacerbate gastritis.

Conclusion

While gastritis can be uncomfortable and disruptive, understanding its triggers and embracing preventive measures can go a long way in managing the condition. Dr Pirzada concludes, "Taking simple steps like dietary modifications, stress management, and hydration can make a world of difference in preventing gastritis." By staying informed and proactive, individuals can protect their stomach health and enjoy a better quality of life.

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