Ulcers are sores or wounds on the internal lining of stomach, intestine (small and large) or esophagus. Stomach ulcers are called gastric ulcers. Stomach ulcers occur when a protective thick layer of mucus is reduced due to stress, gastric juices, bacterial infection, long term use of medicines such as Aspirin and ibuprofen. According to American Gastroenterological Association about a third of all ulcers are caused by aspirin and other painkillers.
Symptoms that should not be ignored
During the initial stages, stomach ulcers do not have any triggering or specific visual symptoms but if you experience the following symptoms for more than a week it is recommended to consult a physician.
- Stomachache
- Heartburn
- Discomfort between meals or during night
- Bloating, burning or dull pain in stomach
- Nausea
Get urgent medical assistance
Ulcers, when left untreated can cause severe pain and irritation. Some of the signs of a severe stomach ulcer are vomiting which may carry blood or appear dark in colour, feeling faint, unexplained weight loss and blood in stool or darker colour stool.
In case, you are experiencing these symptoms get emergency medical assistance. Severe ulcers can be very serious and potentially life-threatening. Timely diagnosis and treatment is necessary as early detection of any medical condition can help with well-timed treatment and recovery.
Treating ulcers
It is important when you are treating ulcers, be cautious of food intake, keep a simple diet, protect yourself from infections that can be transmitted from person to person or food and water. Ulcers are treated through medication or surgeries depending upon the severity of condition. Most stomach ulcers take a few months to heal after treatment.
Ulcer diagnosis and treatment at RMI
Consultants in the Department of Gastroenterology at RMI are treating all types of ulcers. The department is fully equipped with all sorts of diagnostic and treatment facilities. If you are facing any signs and symptoms of an ulcer, it is advised to get complete medical examination for a better tomorrow.
