Overview
Stomach ulcers, otherwise known as gastric ulcers is a breach in the epithelium lining of the stomach. Gastric ulcer is less common than duodenal ulceration. However, the pathology is essentially similar to that of duodenal ulcer, with the exception that stomach ulcers tend to be larger.Signs and Symptoms
Epigastric pain, Pain radiates to the back, Periodicity pain, Vomiting, Alteration in weight gain or loss, Hematemesis, MelaenaCommon Causes
Amount of acid is increased or the amount of mucus is decreased due to Helicobacter pylori infection, On medications: NSAIDs, steroid, anticoagulantRisk Factors
Smoking, Drinking alcohol, Ageing, Low socioeconomic groups, Irregular meal timeInvestigation Techniques
Full blood count, Helicobacter pylori breath test, GastroendoscopyTreatment and Prevention
Lifestyle modification, Cessation of smoking, Medical treatment: H2 receptor antagonist and proton pump inhibitors, antacids, Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy, Surgical treatment is required when there is uncontrolled bleeding and perforationPsychological Issues
Stress, Anorexia
