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Important news for ulcer sufferers |
Most peptic ulcers are caused by a bacteria called Helicobacter Pylori. This infection can now be easily detected and treated, greatly reducing the chance of the ulcer returning later in life.
Peptic ulcers occur when the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the first part of the bowel (duodenal ulcer) is damaged. Ulcers cause indigestion, nausea and hunger pains, especially at night. Occasionally ulcers bleed or rupture and can be life-threatening.
Helicobacter is now known to cause most ulcers, many cases of stomach inflammation (gastritis) and some stomach cancers. Other causes of peptic ulcers are anti-inflammatory (arthritis) tablets, aspirin, smoking and possibly stress.
The main concern with peptic ulcers is that they keep coming back, often many times throughout life. However, if Helicobacter is treated, the risk of relapse falls dramatically and in many cases there is a long-term cure.
How is Helicobacter found?
Helicobacter can be detected simply with a blood test or a new “breath test”, in which the air you breathe out is analysed. Otherwise a sample can be taken from the inside of the stomach during an endoscopy, an examination in which you swallow a narrow plastic tube.
If the test is positive, Helicobacter can be treated with a course of several different kinds of tablets over 1-2 weeks.
If you have had a peptic ulcer recently or in the past, speak to us at the surgery about whether you should be tested for Helicobacter.Disclaimer:
Please note this information was correct at time of printing.
For up to date information, speak to your doctor. Source: Summer 1996 Edition | Page 2
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