Peptic Ulcer – Gastric and Duodenal
- Definition: A peptic ulcer is a break in the inner lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
- Types:
- Gastric Ulcer: A gastric ulcer occurs in the stomach lining.
- Duodenal Ulcer: A duodenal ulcer occurs in the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
Pathophysiology
- Mucosal Defense: The stomach lining has a mucous layer that protects it from the acidic digestive enzymes.
- Acid and Pepsin: The stomach secretes hydrochloric acid and pepsin, which break down food.
- Overproduction of acid and pepsin can lead to peptic ulcers.
Etiological Factors
- H. Pylori: A type of bacteria that can cause peptic ulcers.
- NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause peptic ulcers.
- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can cause peptic ulcers.
- Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of peptic ulcers.
Clinical Features
- Abdominal Pain: Pain in the upper abdomen that worsens after eating.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling queasy or vomiting blood.
- Loss of Appetite: Loss of interest in food.
- Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss.
- Complications:
- Bleeding: Ulcers can bleed, leading to anemia.
- Perforation: Ulcers can perforate, leading to peritonitis.
- Obstruction: Ulcers can block the flow of food.
Diagnostic Investigations
- Upper GI Endoscopy: A procedure to visually examine the stomach and duodenum.
- Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken for examination.
- H. Pylori Tests: Blood tests or breath tests to detect H. pylori bacteria.
Endoscopic Findings
- Gastric Ulcer: A crater-like hole in the stomach lining.
- Duodenal Ulcer: A crater-like hole in the duodenum.
Indications for Surgical Intervention
- Bleeding: Surgery to stop the bleeding.
- Perforation: Surgery to repair the perforation.
- Obstruction: Surgery to remove the blockage.
Preventive Strategies and Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoid NSAIDs: Stop taking NSAIDs.
- Quit Smoking: Quit smoking.
- Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular check-ups with a doctor.
Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines
- Nux Vomica: For abdominal pain and nausea.
- Pulsatilla: For loss of appetite and weight loss.
- China Officinale: For bleeding and anemia.
- Lachesis: For stomach pain and bloating.
- Ipecac: For nausea and vomiting.
Patient Counseling
- Explain the importance of avoiding NSAIDs.
- Encourage quitting smoking.
- Discuss stress-reducing techniques.
- Advise on a healthy diet.
- Emphasize the need for regular check-ups.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid spicy or fatty foods.
- Stay hydrated.
- Get enough sleep.
- Practice relaxation techniques.
Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines
- Nux Vomica: For abdominal pain and nausea.
- Pulsatilla: For loss of appetite and weight loss.
- China Officinale: For bleeding and anemia.
- Lachesis: For stomach pain and bloating.
- Ipecac: For nausea and vomiting.