Duodenal Ulcer Symptoms

Duodenal ulcer is a bacterial infection caused by bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This bacteria acts by causing the rupture of the inner lining of the stomach and the digestive tract. As we know, our stomach produces hydrochloric acid, that helps in digestion of food and destruction of bacteria. This acid is corrosive in nature and so some cells on the internal lining of the stomach and duodenum generate a natural mucus barrier to protect the lining of the stomach and duodenum. Our body naturally maintains a balance between this digestive acid and the mucus defense barrier. However, a person may develop duodenal ulcers if there is any kind of alteration in this balance, i.e. excessive acid generation or less production of mucus barrier by the duodenum, which may eventually damage the lining of the stomach or duodenum.

Causes of Duodenal Ulcer
Although research shows that 80 to 90% of cases of duodenal ulcer in humans is primarily due to bacterial infections, there are various other factors that may lead to different symptoms. Smoking, excessive caffeine intake, drinking alcohol, stress, etc., are some common causes that may stimulate acid secretion in the stomach, and increase the risk of developing ulcers. Some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium, make the stomach vulnerable to the harmful effects of hydrochloric acid.

Symptoms of Duodenal Ulcer
Though each individual may experience different symptoms, the following are the most common symptoms. The patient may usually suffer duodenal ulcer symptoms between or immediately after meals, when hungry or during the early hours of morning. The pain or discomfort due to duodenal ulcer may last for few minutes to several hours.

• Gnawing or burning of the stomach
• Severe abdominal pain, especially between the breastbone and the navel
• Heartburn, especially after meals
• Excessive bloating, belching of the stomach
• Nausea and vomiting
• Poor appetite
• Weight loss
• Excessive fatigue and weakness
• Tarry bowel movements
• Bleeding ulcers, though very rare, mainly occur due to perforation of the intestinal wall, or an obstruction preventing the passage of food

Diagnosis of Duodenal Ulcer
For diagnosing a duodenal ulcer, the doctor may review the patient's symptoms, medical history and conduct tests like an upper GI radiograph, in which the patient swallows liquid barium to locate the ulcer on the radiograph. The patient may also have to undergo blood and stool tests to determine the presence of H. pylori bacteria. In some cases, the doctor may perform an endoscopy to view the upper digestive tract, or a biopsy in which a piece of tissue is taken and sent for lab testing.

Treatment of Duodenal Ulcer
The treatment mainly depends on the cause and severity of the disease. The doctor may prescribe medications like H2-blockers and acid pump inhibitors to reduce the amount of acid generated by the stomach. Antibiotics or mucosal protective agents like antacids, sucralfate, etc., can be used to form a protective barrier over the site of the ulcer. However, if these medications are not effective enough to subside the duodenal ulcer, the patient may have to undergo a surgery, or the ulcer may even transgress into duodenal cancer.

However, along with these treatments, one of the most effective ways to cure is to bring healthy changes in our lifestyle. The patient should quit smoking, drinking alcohol, caffeine and chewing or smoking tobacco products as these things may ignite duodenal ulcer symptoms. Eating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient rest can surely help overcome and prevent the risks of developing duodenal ulcer.