Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) happens when open sores develop in the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. This occurs when the balance between stomach acid and the protective mucus layer is disrupted. Early diagnosis and treatment can relieve pain and prevent serious complications like bleeding or perforation.
Symptoms can vary in intensity, but often include:
Several factors can increase the risk of developing peptic ulcers:
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Peptic ulcers most commonly result from infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Other contributing factors include smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and genetic predisposition.
While emotional stress alone does not directly cause ulcers, it can exacerbate symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and altering gut motility. Managing stress can help reduce discomfort during treatment.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of tests, such as a urea breath test or stool antigen test for H. pylori, blood tests, and upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the ulcer and assess its severity.
Physicians use codes in the K25-K28 range to classify peptic ulcers based on location and complication status. For a non-specified duodenal ulcer without bleeding or perforation, for example, the code is K27.9.
With appropriate therapy-including antibiotics for H. pylori and acid-suppressing medications-most peptic ulcers heal within 4 to 8 weeks. Follow-up tests may be needed to confirm eradication of infection.
Yes. A diet low in acid and irritants-such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol-can help soothe the stomach lining. Including fiber-rich foods, lean proteins, and probiotics may support healing.
Triple therapy combines two antibiotics (to eradicate H. pylori) with a proton pump inhibitor (to reduce acid production). This regimen is typically prescribed for 10-14 days to maximize cure rates.
Surgery is rarely required but may be necessary in cases of uncontrollable bleeding, perforation (a hole in the stomach or duodenal wall), or obstruction. Minimally invasive techniques are preferred when possible.
Yes. Ulcers located on the posterior stomach or duodenal wall can irritate nearby nerves and tissues, leading to referred pain that feels like discomfort in the back.
Prevention strategies include avoiding or limiting NSAID use, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol intake, managing stress, and testing for and treating H. pylori infections when detected.
