PEPTIC ULCER

DISEASE
What is a peptic ulcer?
A peptic ulcer is a sensitive, raw patch that forms on the lining of the stomach or the
duodenum.

How is an ulcer formed?

It occurs when there is an excessive secretion of
stomach acid and pepsin in the gastrointestinal tract.
This continues to break down the defenses of the
lining in the stomach and duodenum, resulting in
painful sores. Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium found
on the stomach lining of people with gastric and
duodenal ulcers.

Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer

- severe pain in the abdomen; much worse at night
- burning, aching sensation on abdomen
- vomiting
- loss of appetite and weight loss

Drugs and Treatment

- combination of drugs
- Antibiotics (tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and
amoxicillin)
- Antacids (Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta, Maalox, and
Gaviscon)
- Proton pump inhibitors = omeprazole (Prilosec),
iansoprazole (Prevacid), rabeprozale (Aciphex),

Tips for Prevention:

Do not smoke
Avoid nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDS)
Avoid coffee and
carbonated
beverages
Avoid alcohol
Avoid spicy foods
Consume smaller,
frequent meals (5-6
meals/day)
Do not lie down
after eating
Proper food
sanitation and hand
washing practices
Consumer high fiber
foods to maintain
healthy gut

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (2011). Peptic Ulcer Patient Information Fact Sheet. Retrieved from
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/hpylori/index.htm.