Peptic Ulcers in Lubbock, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is a peptic ulcer?
A common digestive health condition, peptic ulcers are open sores that develop in the stomach (known as a gastric ulcer) or upper small intestine (called a duodenal ulcer) that can cause discomfort, bleeding, and pain. The variation of cells that line the stomach is covered by a layer of mucus that guard the stomach against damage. When this protective lining within the stomach or small bowel is damaged, then the acid from the stomach erodes the tissue found behind the protective wall.
While anyone can develop peptic ulcers, some people may carry a higher risk if peptic ulcers run in their family or if they are age 50 or older. The digestive health specialists at your nearest Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates location offer experienced care for this GI condition. If you are seeking treatment for peptic ulcers in Lubbock, TX, connect with our office today to request a consultation.
What causes peptic ulcers?
As stated above, a peptic ulcer develops when the tissue in the small intestine or stomach is exposed to pepsin, or the substance commonly referred to as stomach acid. Pepsin then begins to damage the organ’s tissue. There are two causative factors, however, for why the stomach's protective lining becomes eroded.
Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori, commonly referred to as H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can enter a person's system in a variety of ways. Once the bacteria finds its way in, it can invade the layer of mucus lining the stomach. This causes openings in the protective lining and can lead to ulcers. When helicobacter pylori bacteria is present, your provider may recommend antibiotics to help eliminate the harmful bacteria.
Pain relievers
There are certain pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, that can prohibit your body from generating a chemical that helps protect the inner walls of your stomach and small bowel.
Other forms of pain relievers, for example, Tylenol (acetaminophen) will not cause the development of ulcers in the small intestine and stomach. This is one of the reasons why healthcare practitioners advise taking pain medication in small and controlled amounts.
Risk factors for peptic ulcers
Other factors that increase the risk of developing gastric or duodenal ulcers involve:
- Smoking
- Stress
- Consuming foods that are acidic or spicy
- Regular use of NSAID pain medication
- Alcohol consumption
Our Lubbock, TX gastroenterologists can identify the signs of peptic ulcers and help discern factors that might be causing the gastrointestinal condition.
What are the symptoms of peptic ulcers?
Because peptic ulcers are basically open sores in the stomach or small intestine, patients will commonly report a burning sensation and discomfort in the abdomen when they have developed. Additional signs and symptoms of peptic ulcers can involve:
- Nausea
- Belching
- Vomiting
- Fatty food intolerance
- Unintentional weight loss
- Blood in the stool
- Loss of appetite
- Heartburn and acid reflux
- Bloating
If you are vomiting or have noticed blood in your stool in combination with any of the above symptoms, you should seek treatment immediately. OurLubbock Digestive Disease Associates providers are here to help you alleviate your symptoms and treat your peptic ulcer.
What treatments are available for peptic ulcers?
With the proper medical care, peptic ulcers can be treated and can heal after some time. Options commonly used to treat peptic ulcers can include the following:
- Antibiotics to kill helicobacter pylori
- Reduce the use of specific pain medications
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid
- Medications to reduce acid production (H-2 blockers)
- Endoscopy to cauterize bleeding arteries
- Cytoprotective agents (medication to protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine)
- Surgery
Heal your peptic ulcer
Our gastroenterologists provide peptic ulcer treatment to Lubbock, TX patients and are dedicated to helping you live your life without discomfort or pain in your GI tract. Reach out to a Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates location near you to learn more about your options for treatment and how we go above and beyond to help you. Request a consultation today to take the first step toward wellness.
Reviews
It is always a pleasure t visit with Dr. Ganga. She has been my doctor for over 20 years. I appreciate her so much!
From front staff to the dr himself everyone was extremely polite and welcoming. I don't have any family here and so I had to take my baby with me; they accommodated us and were patient as I tried to go buy with stroller and all. The dr listened to every single one of my concerns and answered my questions throughly. Extremely satisfied 😊
Dr. Miller, was pleasant, professional. Explained the situation in terms that I could understand but did not talk down to me. Definitely recommend him to anyone seeking a gastrointestinal doctor.
Dr. Miller is very experienced in the field of caring for people with gastro problems. He's so nice and caring and I feel comfortable talking to him.
Dr. Miller took his time to go over my symptoms and explained his thoughts and what the next step were going to be for my treatment.
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