Peptic Ulcer Pain

A peptic ulcer is an ulcer or open sore that develops in the lining of the intestinal tract. More often, peptic ulcers develop in the stomach, duodenum and esophagus. When such ulcers develop in the stomach, they are called gastric or stomach ulcers. An ulcer of the duodenum on the other hand, is known as duodenal ulcer, while an ulcer of the esophagus is called esophageal ulcer. Peptic ulcer, irrespective of its location can produce considerable pain. It usually causes abdominal pain and a burning sensation and discomfort in the upper part of the abdomen.

Pain Due to Peptic Ulcer

Peptic ulcers usually develop due to the infection caused by the bacteria, known as Helicobacter pylori. Infection of the intestinal tract caused by this bacteria is the most common cause of this ulcer in a large number of individuals. However sometimes, these ulcers can also be caused by factors like, prolonged and excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, smoking and chewing tobacco, excessive consumption of alcohol, injury or trauma to the gastric mucosal lining, severe burns and major surgery. Rarely, such ulcers can associated with stomach cancer. The most common symptom associated with this ulcer is abdominal pain. The location of such a pain can be anywhere from the navel up to the breastbone. Sometimes, the pain can radiate to other parts of the body such as, the chest or the back. So, a few individuals can also get this pain back along with the usual abdominal pain.

The pain is usually produced when the ulcer is irritated by the stomach acid. Therefore, the pain caused this ulcer is usually experienced within two-three hours after having meal. If the ulcer is located in the duodenum, then the pain can reduce after consuming food. But if the ulcer is located in the stomach, then consumption of food can worsen the pain. Spicy, highly acidic and fatty foods are often found to exacerbate the pain caused by this ulcer. Even caffeine and alcohol can irritate the ulcer and cause pain. Apart from pain, it can be accompanied by other symptoms like, bloating, abdominal fullness, nausea and vomiting, vomiting of blood and dark, tarry stool.

How to Get Relief From Pain Caused by Peptic Ulcer?

The pain caused by peptic ulcer can be reduced to an extent by controlling the production of stomach acid. Regulating the production of stomach acid is also very important to ensure fast healing of the ulcers. Therefore, physicians usually recommend appropriate medications to reduce the amount of acids in stomach. Such medications include, antacids, acid blockers or H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Cytoprotective agents are sometimes used, in order to coat the lining of the stomach and the intestine to promote fast healing of the ulcers. Along with these, antibiotics are also prescribed to kill the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori.

Along with medications, certain foods can be used for pain relief, as they can neutralize or reduce the stomach acids. One such food is Indian gooseberry, which can not only absorb the excess stomach acid, but can also boost the immune system and clear the stomach by acting as a laxative. Some other foods that can help to reduce the pain caused by peptic ulcer and accelerate the healing process are, almond milk, papaya, milk, carrot and cabbage juice, Aloe Vera juice, green tea, chamomile tea, fenugreek tea and yogurt.

People with peptic ulcer can get considerable relief by making a few dietary changes. They should maintain a fixed schedule of meal times, and eat small, frequent meals instead of three large meals. At the same time, they need to avoid spicy and highly acidic foods, citrus, tomato products, sour and hot foods. They should also refrain from lying down immediately after eating meals. All such simple dietary and lifestyle changes can provide significant relief in pain. However, along with reducing the pain, it is also important to seek medical attention for stomach ulcer cure. So, consult a physician as soon as possible.