An intestinal ulcer is an open sore that develops in the lining of your digestive tract. These can occur in different regions:
Ulcers can interfere with digestion, cause discomfort, and may require medical care to heal and prevent complications.
Symptoms vary by ulcer location and severity, but often include:
An ulcer forms when the protective lining of the intestine is weakened, allowing acid or chronic inflammation to injure the tissue. Common contributors include:
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We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
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Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
The primary types include duodenal ulcers (in the first part of the small intestine), jejunal or ileal ulcers (in the rest of the small intestine), and colonic ulcers (in the large intestine).
Common signs include burning or cramping pain in the upper abdomen that often improves after eating, along with nausea, bloating, or unexplained weight loss.
While stress doesn't directly create ulcers, it can worsen existing symptoms, slow healing, and lead to behaviors like smoking or alcohol use that increase ulcer risk.
Diagnosis often involves upper endoscopy to visualize sores, H. pylori stool or breath tests, blood work, and imaging studies such as CT scans if complications are suspected.
Peptic ulcers refer specifically to sores in the stomach and duodenum. Duodenal ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer and fall under the broader category of intestinal ulcers.
With proper treatment-including acid suppression and, if needed, antibiotics-most ulcers heal within 4 to 8 weeks. Healing time may be longer if complications arise.
Stick to a bland, low-acid diet: foods like rice, bananas, oatmeal, lean proteins, and cooked vegetables. Avoid spicy, caffeinated, or highly acidic items until healing is confirmed.
Yes. Ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory bowel diseases can lead to colonic ulcers, resulting in symptoms like bleeding, cramping, and diarrhea.
Consult a gastroenterologist if you experience persistent abdominal pain, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or any signs of bleeding or obstruction.
No. The majority heal with medications and lifestyle changes. Surgery is reserved for ulcers that perforate, bleed heavily, or cause strictures that block the digestive tract.
