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Peptic Ulcer(PUD; Duodenal Ulcer; Ulcer, Peptic; Ulcer, Duodenal)
by
Debra Wood, RN DefinitionA peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine. They may be named by their location:
CausesAcids that help you break down food can lead to an ulcer. A change to the amount of acid causes damage to the stomach or intestine walls. This is most often caused by:
Less common causes include:
Risk FactorsFactors that may increase the chances of a peptic ulcer include:
SymptomsPeptic ulcers do not always cause symptoms. Symptoms may come and go. Food or fluids may make symptoms better and an empty stomach may make them worse. Symptoms may include:
Ulcers can cause bleeding. It is rare but heavier bleeding can cause:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may suspect an ulcer based on your symptoms. An endoscopy will help to make the diagnosis. A scope will be passed down the throat to view the lining of the stomach. Other tests may include:
TreatmentTreatment will depend on the cause. General steps include:
MedicineStomach acid can be managed with:
Medicine related to causes include:
Quit smoking. Smoking worsens symptoms and slows healing. Surgery and EndoscopyAn endoscopy may help to stop small areas of bleeding. Surgery may be needed for:
There are different types of surgery. Options include:
PreventionTo help reduce the chances of H. pylori infection:
To help reduce the chances of a peptic ulcer from NSAIDs:
RESOURCES:American College of Gastroenterology http://patients.gi.org American Gastroenterological Association http://www.gastro.org CANADIAN RESOURCESCanadian Association of Gastroenterology https://www.cag-acg.org Canadian Digestive Health Foundation http://www.cdhf.ca References:Fashner J, Gitu AC. Diagnosis and treatment of peptic ulcer disease and H. pylori infection.
Am Fam Physician. 2015;91(4):236-242. Peptic ulcer disease. American College of Gastroenterology website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed January 26, 2021. Peptic ulcer disease. American Gastroenterological Association website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed January 26, 2021. Peptic ulcer disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed January 26, 2021. Peptic ulcers (stomach ulcers). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at:
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers. Accessed January 26, 2021. Last reviewed November 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review BoardNicole S. Meregian, PA Last Updated: 1/26/2021 | |