Men over 60 at risk: Doctor warns of concerning condition

The main symptoms of an ulcer

First and foremost is a sensation of burning or dull pain in the stomach area. However, an ulcer may not always be accompanied by pain. Sometimes the disease manifests itself with symptoms such as:

• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Feeling of heaviness in the stomach

Why such a condition occurs

Previously, the development of ulcers was often associated with improper diet. However, two Australian researchers, Barry Marshall and Robin Warren, were awarded the Nobel Prize for the discovery of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

They found that about 80% of ulcer cases have a bacterial origin. Understanding the real nature of the disease development has saved many lives and has also enabled the identification of risk groups and factors that may be relevant to the development of stomach cancer.

Gastroenterologist Yevheniia Belinska explains that Helicobacter is also the main cause of stomach cancer. Therefore, if Helicobacter is the cause of gastritis or ulcers in your case, it is worth not neglecting antibiotic therapy even for mild symptoms.

According to the doctor, cancer does not develop out of nowhere. At first, tissue atrophy occurs, then metaplasia, then dysplasia, and only then cancer.

Helicobacter infection is not the only factor in the development of the disease. However, more than 80% of stomach cancer cases are associated with this bacterium, says the expert.

How to treat an ulcer

Experts often prescribe drugs from the proton pump inhibitor group. These drugs help reduce the amount of stomach acid entering the stomach.

Sometimes, an ulcer returns even after effective treatment. However, this occurs less frequently if treatment is directed at the real cause of the disease.

How dangerous is an ulcer An ulcer can be life-threatening. Immediate medical attention is needed if the following symptoms occur:

• Vomiting with blood. Blood can be either red or resemble coffee grounds.
• Feeling a sharp and very severe pain in the stomach area.
• Dark sticky stools resembling tar.

Diets do not cure stomach ulcers. However, if you have been diagnosed with an ulcer, it is better to limit your diet in such foods and drinks as:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Spicy foods
• Any dishes with a large amount of spices
• Fatty meats
• Beverages containing caffeine
• Citrus juices
• Dairy products and drinks
• Chocolate
• Tomato products, such as pasta, juice, sauce

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.