Duodenal Ulcer
Duodenal Ulcer
An ulcer is a sore that is found in the lining of the gastrointestinal or GI tract. Your sore is found in the upper part of the small bowel. This is called the duodenum and is where the stomach ends. Doctors call this a duodenal ulcer. A germ called Helicobacter pylori often causes these ulcers. These germs hurt the protective lining. Then the stomach acid gets through to the lining. The acid is so strong that it causes a sore or hole in the lining of the GI tract. There are also other causes of ulcers. Some of them are the use of aspirin, ibuprofen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or lots of acid as seen in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Ulcers may be treated and managed by drugs and changes to your way of life. The doctor may suggest surgery in cases of bad ulcers.
Name
Duodenal Ulcer Discharge Instructions
About this topic
An ulcer is a sore that is found in the lining of the gastrointestinal or GI tract. Your sore is found in the upper part of the small bowel. This is called the duodenum and is where the stomach ends. Doctors call this a duodenal ulcer. A germ called Helicobacter pylori often causes these ulcers. These germs hurt the protective lining. Then the stomach acid gets through to the lining. The acid is so strong that it causes a sore or hole in the lining of the GI tract. There are also other causes of ulcers. Some of them are the use of aspirin, ibuprofen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or lots of acid as seen in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Ulcers may be treated and managed by drugs and changes to your way of life. The doctor may suggest surgery in cases of bad ulcers.
What drugs may be needed?
Help with pain,Fight an infection if the ulcer was caused by H. pylori,Lower acid in the stomach,Protect the lining of the stomach
What problems could happen?
Internal bleeding,Swelling or tears of the tissue lining in the digestive tract,Cancer
When do I need to call the doctor?
Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills.,Very bad pain in the belly, burning pain in the belly that goes away after eating or drinking,Throwing up blood,Bloody stool,Black, tarry stools,Trouble breathing, slow breathing, or shallow breathing,Very bad dizziness
Body systems
Ambulatory Care,Gastrointestinal
What are other common names?
Peptic Ulcer,Peptic Ulcer Disease,Stomach Ulcer,Ulcer,Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.
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