Is a stomach ulcer dangerous? Gastric ulcer. What's this? Why is she dangerous? What causes an ulcer

11.04.2022 Boilers

Among the diseases of the digestive system is a stomach ulcer. Untreated stomach ulcers often cause internal bleeding and anemia. In advanced cases, severe complications develop in the form of perforation and penetration.

Along with chronic atrophic gastritis, this disease increases the likelihood of developing stomach cancer.

Formation of a stomach ulcer

Peptic ulcer of the stomach is a chronic disease with frequent relapses, in which an ulcer is formed on the mucosa. Often deeper layers are involved in the process.

A stomach ulcer is often diagnosed in children. The earlier this pathology occurs, the higher the likelihood of complications in the future.

The structure of the human stomach and esophagus is not known to everyone. The ulcerative defect can be localized in different departments. In the stomach, the cardial and pyloric parts, fundus and body are isolated. The most dangerous ulcer, which is localized in the area of ​​​​transition of the organ into the duodenum 12. This can cause stagnation of the food bolus and its throwing into the esophagus.

The cardia is a continuation of the esophageal tube. The sphincter is located in this area. It serves to prevent reflux. The fundus of the stomach is dome-shaped.

The largest section is the body. An ulcer of the antrum of the stomach is often detected. This is the lowest part of the body. An ulcer is a small (about 1 cm) defect. Despite the small size, the whole organ suffers.

The basis of the formation of ulcers are the following pathological processes:

  • bacterial infection;
  • increased production of gastric juice;
  • decrease in the production of protective factors (mucus, bicarbonates, gastrin).

This defect is formed over several years. Often this disease is preceded by. Sometimes symptomatic ulcers form in the stomach. The reason may be stress. Peptic ulcer of the stomach is often detected among young people. This is due to the nature of nutrition and bad habits.

What are stomach ulcers

Everyone has heard about a stomach ulcer, but not everyone knows its types.

The classification of pathology is based on the following features:

  • localization;
  • the number of defects;
  • the size;
  • the presence of complications;
  • the phase of the course of the disease;
  • etiological factor.

There is an ulcer of the cardial part of the stomach, subcardial part, body, antrum and pyloric parts. The defect may or may not be associated with Helicobacter pylori infection.

Gastric ulcer is divided into complicated and uncomplicated. In the first case, perforation, bleeding and penetration are possible. An open gastric ulcer or a healed defect may be detected.

There are multiple and single mucosal defects. Ulcers are small, medium, large and giant. In the latter case, the defect is more than 3 cm. In most cases, the size of the ulcer does not exceed 1 cm.

If the diagnosis becomes for the first time, then we are talking about an acute form of the disease. If periods of remission are replaced by exacerbations, then this indicates.

In the development of an ulcer, 4 periods are distinguished:

  1. active;
  2. healing;
  3. scarring;
  4. remissions.

There is a classification according to the etiological factor. Gastric ulcers are divided into primary and secondary (symptomatic). In the latter case, the causes may be stress, taking gastrotoxic drugs (NSAIDs, antibiotics), endocrine diseases and tumors.

Why does an ulcer form?

The following factors play a decisive role in the development of peptic ulcer:

  • bacteria Helicobacter pylori;
  • alcoholism;
  • smoking;
  • chronic form of inflammation of the stomach;
  • malnutrition;
  • stress;
  • violation of the production of hydrochloric acid and pepsin.

Up to 75% of all cases of this pathology of the stomach have a bacterial etiology. The virus does not play a big role in the development of this disease.

Peptic ulcer in children and adults develops against the background of infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria.

These microorganisms have the following features:

  • transmitted through saliva, dishes, food and medical instruments;
  • have a spiral shape;
  • able to live in the acidic environment of the stomach.

Most often, transmission occurs when using one dish, if there is an infected person in the family. Gastric juice does not kill bacteria. These microbes contribute to increased production of hydrochloric acid.

Acute gastric ulcer often develops on the background of taking medications. NSAIDs, glucocorticosteroids, cytostatics, antibiotics and some antihypertensive drugs have the most negative effect on the mucosa.

In men and women, the stomach is often affected against the background of another pathology. It can be:

  • thyroid disease, diabetes,
  • lungs' cancer,
  • hepatitis,
  • syphilis, sarcoidosis,
  • Crohn's disease,
  • tuberculosis,
  • gastrinoma.

The stress factor plays a big role. The causes of symptomatic ulcers are shock, burns, acute purulent diseases, impaired renal function. A possible etiological factor is smoking.

Inhalation of tobacco smoke increases the risk of developing gastritis and the disease in question. Causes of stomach ulcers include alcoholism. Social factors (psychological environment, diet, lifestyle, financial condition) are of great importance. Peptic ulcer of the stomach often manifests itself against the background of gastritis.

The reasons are the wrong diet (eating less than 3 times a day), dry food, abuse of spicy foods and dishes.

Initially, erosion is formed on the mucosa. This is a superficial injury. If its epithelialization does not occur, then a deeper defect is formed.

Very often, an ulcer of the greater curvature of the stomach is combined with a lesion of the duodenum 12.

Experienced gastroenterologists know the main manifestations of this pathology. From other diseases, a stomach ulcer differs in a feature of the clinical picture.

The defect may heal. In this case, the symptoms are less pronounced. Exacerbation of stomach ulcers is most often observed in autumn and spring. This is due to the greater activity of a person in this period and a change in the nature of nutrition.

The main symptom of an ulcer is pain.

It has the following features:

  • felt in the epigastric zone;
  • occurs at night and 1.5-2 hours after eating;
  • worried on an empty stomach;
  • fickle;
  • different intensity;
  • radiates to the left side of the chest, back and arm;
  • dull or sharp;
  • combined with dyspepsia (nausea, belching, heartburn);
  • sometimes has atypical localization;
  • decreases with the use of antacids and proton pump blockers.

Stress can contribute to the aggravation. For most people, pain is felt in the epigastric region or just above the navel. Sometimes it is localized in the lower back, right hypochondrium and pelvis. It can be weak or very strong (dagger). If there is a perforation of the wall of the organ, then the pain syndrome increases dramatically.

With a pylorus ulcer, a person's condition worsens 2-3 hours after eating. Such pain is called late. The cardia and body are often affected. In this case, early pain worries.

The appearance of this symptom is due to irritation of the defect with hydrochloric acid and pepsin. One in five people with an ulcer has no pain. It is most often seen in the elderly.

Additional clinical manifestations

Along with the pain of an ulcer, the following symptoms are possible:

  • weight loss
  • heartburn;
  • nausea;
  • vomit;
  • violation of the stool by the type of constipation;
  • lack of appetite;
  • sour belching;
  • feeling of fullness in the abdomen;
  • heaviness.

For such people, a little food is enough to saturate. Heartburn with a stomach ulcer is a burning sensation in the chest. This is where the esophagus is located. With an ulcer of the posterior wall of the stomach or other localization, food, along with juice, can be thrown up.

It is called . Irritation of the esophageal mucosa is manifested by burning. In severe cases, the esophagus may become inflamed.

When a sick child or adult feels an unpleasant aftertaste in the mouth. There may be an eructation. The reason for its occurrence is a violation of the sphincter located between the esophagus and stomach.

Constipation is a common symptom of the disease. It develops due to stagnation of food and high acidity. Additional symptoms of ulcers include sleep disturbance, irritability, and fear of eating.

Peptic ulcer of the stomach can worsen very often. In case of refusal of treatment or non-compliance with prescriptions, the likelihood of complications is high. One of them is bleeding.

The reason for its occurrence is damage to the vessels located at the bottom of the ulcer. Each attending physician should tell his patients about the danger of gastric bleeding.

With pathology, the following symptoms are observed:

  • pallor;
  • dyspnea;
  • tachycardia;
  • pressure drop;
  • melena;
  • vomiting with blood.

This complication develops in 15% of patients. Massive bleeding is manifested by vomiting like coffee grounds. The contents of the stomach become dark in color. This happens due to blood clotting.

When red blood cells interact with acid, the feces become black and liquid. This condition is called melena. Bleeding is possible if you lift weights and drink alcohol.

Even after helping the patient, a relapse is possible. With massive blood loss, anemia develops. Possible shock. The ulcer tends to heal. This does not mean that the person has recovered.

A dangerous consequence of an ulcer is pyloric stenosis. This leads to stagnation of chyme and overflow of the organ. In severe cases, patients refuse to take food by mouth. This leads to drastic weight loss and emaciation.

With pyloric stenosis, seizures and a violation of the water and electrolyte balance are possible. Quite often at an ulcer there is a formation of a perforative opening. In this case, food enters the abdominal cavity.

In this situation, organ resection may be required. Perforation is observed in 7-8% of patients. This complication is caused by intense physical activity with a stomach ulcer.

A person may develop peritonitis. It is manifested by weakness, diffuse pain and fever. If left untreated, there is a risk of penetration. This is a condition in which the wall of an organ is destroyed. Another organ becomes the bottom of the ulcer.

In such people, the concentration of alpha-amylase in the blood increases. The pancreas is often affected. A destructive form of pancreatitis develops. If the fight against peptic ulcer is not carried out for a long time, then there is a risk of malignancy. This is the most formidable complication in which cancer cells are formed.

Diagnostics

If an ulcer of the posterior wall of the stomach is suspected, the following studies are organized:

  • probing (FEGDS);
  • immunological research;
  • pH-metry;
  • analysis of feces for the presence of occult blood;
  • general clinical tests;
  • urease test;
  • cytological analysis;
  • biopsy;
  • contrast radiography.

Helicobacter pylori bacteria can be transmitted from one person to another, so microbiological analysis is recommended for all family members. The physician must interview the patient. The cause of the disease may be a psychosomatic factor (stress). The anamnesis is collected carefully.

An ulcer of the pylorus of the stomach and other departments is detected during endoscopic examination. With the help of fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy (FEGDS), the mucous membranes of the stomach, esophagus and duodenum are examined. You do not need to eat breakfast before the procedure.

The patient first drinks an anesthetic. The procedure involves inserting a thin tube into the stomach through the mouth. If a stomach ulcer is found, the description must include the exact location and size. Sometimes multiple defects are identified.

Often a healed stomach ulcer is detected. Radiography is of great value to the doctor.

With a disease in the picture, the following changes are detected:

  • symptom of a niche (delay of the coloring matter at the site of the ulcer);
  • narrowing of the pyloric region;
  • retraction of the mucosa on the wall of the organ opposite to the defect;
  • an area of ​​inflammation near the ulcer;
  • scar;
  • slower clearance of contrast.

Before dealing with a stomach ulcer, a differential diagnosis is mandatory.

In acute pain, pancreatitis, cholecystitis and appendicitis should be ruled out. Duodenal ulcer and gastritis have a similar clinical picture.

Treatment of patients is organized by a doctor. In the acute period, hospitalization may be required.

The following tasks are pursued:

  • cleansing the body of Helicobacter pylori bacteria;
  • prevention of complications;
  • elimination of symptoms;
  • providing conditions for the speedy healing of the defect;
  • decrease in acidity.

The male body often needs physical activity. With an ulcer, it should be minimal.

Even if a sick person is very athletic, rest should be observed. Light gymnastics is available.

There are three main aspects of successful treatment:

  • taking prescribed medications;
  • dieting, including avoiding alcohol;
  • lifestyle change.

Contraindications for stomach ulcers include avoiding alcohol and cigarettes. In the absence of complications, surgery (resection) is not required. Vitamins with a stomach ulcer must be drunk. They allow you to strengthen the body and accelerate the healing process of the mucosa.

If the test is positive for Helicobacter pylori, antibiotics are prescribed. The most active against these microbes are macrolides (Azitrox), penicillins (Amoxiclav) and nitroimidazoles (Metrogyl).

In order to eliminate pain and heartburn against the background of increased acidity, antacids and proton pump blockers are used. The former normalize pH, and the latter inhibit the synthesis of hydrochloric acid.

Antacids include Gaviscon, Rennie, Phosphalugel and Almagel. The group of proton pump blockers includes Rabiet, Rabeprazole-OBL, Razo, Pariet, Hairabezol, Beret, Noflux, Omez, Sanpraz, Nolpaza, Controloc, Epicurus, Lancid, Lanzap and Peptazol.

During the period of exacerbation, gastroprotectors are used. These include De-Nol and Venter. If a stomach ulcer is detected during pregnancy, then drugs that are less toxic to the fetus are selected. The treatment regimen most often includes three or four drugs.

Auxiliary drugs include blockers of M-cholinergic receptors. They inhibit the synthesis of hydrochloric acid and pepsin. If there is gastric ulcer, therapy includes the use of sedatives, antispasmodics, eubiotics, prokinetics. These are symptomatic drugs.

It is necessary to know not only whether a stomach ulcer is transmitted from a patient to healthy people, but also methods of treatment with the development of complications.

With symptoms of massive gastric bleeding, the following should be done:

  • lay the patient down and raise his legs;
  • avoid eating and drinking water;
  • ensure complete peace;
  • give a basin in case of vomiting;
  • put a heating pad or ice pack on your stomach;
  • call an ambulance.

If you need to lift a person, then a stretcher is used. This is a permitted way to move patients. After the arrival of the ambulance, drugs are used that are effective for bleeding (Dicinone, Aminocaproic acid). Medicines are best administered by injection. If necessary, Vikasol, Cryoprecipitate and plasma are used.

You need to make up for the loss of blood. With the development of complications, resection is required. During it, part of the organ is removed. Resection is necessary for malignancy, perforation and obstruction of the stomach.

These are the three main indications for surgery. Removal of the entire stomach is not performed. Against the background of an ulcer, the peritoneum may become inflamed. In this case, a laparotomy is performed. Aspiration is organized.

Other treatments

If there is a stomach ulcer, psychosomatics is of great interest to doctors. To reduce the frequency of exacerbations, you need to eliminate any stress.

You need to know not only whether it is possible to play sports with a stomach ulcer, but also what should be the diet of patients. Compliance with a strict diet is the key to successful treatment.

From the diet of patients are excluded:

  • spices;
  • sauces;
  • pickles;
  • marinades;
  • smoked meats;
  • fried food;
  • spicy dishes;
  • canned food;
  • mayonnaise;
  • coffee;
  • chocolate;
  • cabbage;
  • legumes.

There are three main aspects of the diet:

  • refusal of prohibited products;
  • compliance with the diet;
  • exclusion of alcohol.

In the remission phase, you can drink mineral water. If pregnancy and a stomach ulcer are detected, regular examination is required. With this pathology, it is very important to normalize weight. With obesity, you need to think about how to lose weight. Whether they take to the army with a stomach ulcer is not known to everyone. With frequent relapses, patients are exempted from service.

In order for a person not to need a resection in the future, all medical recommendations must be strictly observed. Self-medication is unacceptable. To normalize digestion, probiotics are included in the treatment regimen.

Linex is one of them. With nausea and vomiting, prokinetics are prescribed. With a stomach ulcer, the description of the main complaints by the patient is of great importance for subsequent treatment.

The prognosis for this pathology is most often favorable. Only an integrated approach to therapy can achieve healing. In case of complications, resection is required. If there are three or more exacerbations per year, then constant monitoring of the patient is necessary.

The most unfavorable prognosis is with malignancy. A very dangerous condition when a stomach ulcer has burst. This complication poses a threat to human health.

You need to know not only the risk factors for the formation of a stomach ulcer, what kind of disease it is, but also preventive measures. It should be done in childhood.

In order to avoid stomach ulcers, prevention should include diet, avoidance of NSAIDs and other aggressive drugs in the form of tablets, and a healthy lifestyle.

Of great importance is the nature of nutrition. Prevention of gastric ulcers is aimed at maintaining optimal acidity, preventing Helicobacter pylori bacteria from entering the gastrointestinal tract and preventing mucosal irritation.

  • wash dishes thoroughly
  • eat only fresh food;
  • eat at intervals of 3-3.5 hours;
  • refuse fried and spicy foods;
  • limit the consumption of spices, canned food, sandwiches, pickles and smoked meats;
  • give up alcoholic beverages and black coffee;
  • do not use long-term NSAIDs and antibiotics;
  • cure nicotine addiction;
  • do sport;
  • treat chronic diseases;
  • not be stressed.

Specific prevention of gastric ulcers has not been developed. If there is already a mucosal defect, the likelihood of complications should be minimized.

Otherwise, suturing of a perforated gastric ulcer or resection may be necessary.

Thus, peptic ulcer disease is very common among people of all ages.

This pathology is due mainly to exogenous factors, so it is easy to prevent.

Improper diet, stress, bacterial infection cause problems with the gastrointestinal tract, including such serious ones as peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum. Ulcers themselves are unpleasant, but completely curable.

But in the conditions of eternal time pressure, we often put off going to the gastroenterologist “for later”, swallow painkillers and antacids, drowning out the “SOS” signals coming from the body, and not thinking about the consequences. Meanwhile, peptic ulcer can give very serious complications.

Bleeding

With an increase in the size of the ulcer, the wall of the vessel is often exposed. Under the influence of hydrochloric acid of gastric juice, it dissolves, and bleeding occurs.

The main symptoms of bleeding are vomiting of blood (fresh or clotted, resembling coffee grounds in appearance) and black, tarry stools with an unpleasant odor - melena. In this case, you need to urgently call the ambulance brigade. Under no circumstances should you eat anything! You can drink only cold still water.

Alarming "calls" that speak of possible bleeding are sudden pallor, loss of consciousness, and a drop in blood pressure.

Ulcer perforation

A real threat to the patient's life is also perforation or, otherwise, perforation of a stomach or duodenal ulcer. Sometimes an ulcer destroys all layers of the wall of the affected organ, and gastric or intestinal contents and microflora enter the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis - inflammation of the peritoneum.

As a rule, perforation of the ulcer is accompanied by sudden, very severe pain in the abdomen, from which it is difficult to move. Only the so-called fetal position brings some relief - lying on your side, with your knees pulled up to your stomach. At the same time, the abdomen is tense, reacts to touch.

When the ulcer is perforated, it is important to get into the hands of the surgeon as soon as possible, the only method of treatment here is surgical. In no case should you self-medicate, it is especially dangerous to warm your stomach.

When deciding whether to call an ambulance for abdominal pain, it should be borne in mind that in older people, as well as those who take glucocorticoids, the manifestations of the disease may be less pronounced.

Another dangerous moment: the so-called symptom of imaginary well-being - when the pain that was unbearable at first gradually subsides, and it seems to the patient that everything has passed. Meanwhile, inflammation of the peritoneum develops, and pain returns.

penetration

Without proper treatment, an ulcer can eventually spread to nearby organs. A symptom of this penetration (penetration) is usually pain, the localization of which depends on which organ is affected. As a rule, over time, pain becomes constant and intensifies.

Stenosis of the pylorus and duodenum

Stenosis or, more simply, narrowing of the pylorus (the narrowest part of the stomach where food passes into the intestines) or duodenal lumen, usually occurs due to scarring of an ulcer or as a result of a surgical operation.

Due to stenosis, food cannot pass normally from the stomach to the intestines. A slight narrowing can be suspected in oneself by a feeling of heaviness in the stomach after eating, periodic vomiting, after which it becomes easier, sour belching.

In more advanced cases, stagnation of food occurs in the stomach. An unpleasant odor appears from the mouth, the patient periodically vomits the food eaten the day before, there are pains in the stomach. Food is poorly digested, which can lead to malnutrition and dehydration.

Malignization

Another dangerous complication of an ulcer is its degeneration into a malignant tumor. It is impossible to determine that a “simple” ulcer has turned into cancer without consulting a doctor.

The change in the nature of the pain in the abdomen should be alert - it becomes stronger and constantly pursues, the usual drugs do not bring relief. The general condition worsens, appetite disappears, often there is an aversion to meat food.

The consequences of complications caused by an ulcer can be very deplorable. Make it a rule: any alarming symptom is a reason to see a doctor.

Perforation of a stomach ulcer is a difficult process, which is characterized by complications.

A stomach ulcer is not something terrible in itself, but it is formidable in its complications, including bleeding, penetration, perforation, and even death. It must be remembered that if you do not pay attention to your well-being, having a diagnosis of "stomach ulcer", you can become a seriously ill person and even die.

We often do not think about how dangerous a stomach ulcer is, what complications it can cause. Therefore, we eat "anyhow and whatever", we do not visit a doctor in a timely manner, although the body constantly signals about the "malfunctions" that have arisen.

A stomach ulcer is understood as a violation of the integrity of the mucous membrane of this organ. It is formed under the influence of natural gastric contents. The disease is characterized by alternating periods of exacerbation and remission. The healing of this defect occurs in the form of scarring. The clinical manifestations of gastric ulcers are varied, but the main symptom of this pathology is epigastric pain.

A person suffering from stomach ulcers usually:

  • weight is reduced;
  • appetite worsens;
  • the quality of life in general is changing for the worse.

Complications of the pathology are as follows:

  • Bleeding. Bleeding stomach ulcer exposes the vascular wall. Hydrochloric acid, which is an aggressive substance, can dissolve it completely, which leads to bleeding.
    Ulcerative bleeding is a condition that, if a person is not taken to a medical facility in time, can lead to death. It is impossible in such a state of the patient to feed, give any medicinal substances. To reduce pain, you can only put cold on the epigastric region.
    A little bleeding may go away on its own, but this does not mean at all that a person does not need to be hospitalized. The patient in this state should be under the constant supervision of the medical staff until the dangerous period is over.
  • Penetration. If a person knows that he has a stomach ulcer and is not treated, he must understand that serious consequences of a stomach ulcer can await him, including penetration or spread of the pathological process to nearby organs. A sign of this is the ever-increasing pain at the site of distribution. These discomforts become permanent over time. Penetration is also dangerous for the development of bleeding, various inflammatory processes and deformities of the stomach. This complication of stomach ulcers is eliminated only by surgery.

  • Pyloric stenosis. This is a narrowing of the lumen. It occurs due to the formation of a scar after the healing of the ulcer. It can also occur after surgery.
    This pathology does not allow food masses to pass normally from the stomach to the intestines.
  • Malignancy. No less dangerous complication of a gastric ulcer is its malignancy, that is, degeneration into cancer. It is impossible to feel that the ulcerative process becomes malignant without a serious examination.
    But the growing pains that are not stopped by the usual medicines, a decrease in appetite, a deterioration in general condition, weight loss, and an aversion to meat products should make you think.

One of the most serious complications of gastric ulcer is its perforation.

Perforation of a stomach ulcer or its perforation is a condition from which, if timely assistance is not provided to him, the patient may die. Especially dangerous is the condition when, as a result of the ulcerative process, the wall of the stomach is destroyed and its contents can enter the peritoneum, thereby causing its inflammation - peritonitis. This is a formidable condition that requires long and persistent treatment, which does not always end successfully.

It is proved that the causative agent of this disease is the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. It lives in the stomachs of half of all mankind. But it begins to multiply intensively only under special circumstances.

Causes of a perforated ulcer

Perforation of a perforated ulcer leads to:

  • inflammation around the ulcer focus;
  • eating too much food;
  • if for some reason acidity has increased in the stomach, this can provoke a perforated ulcer;
  • alcohol, a large amount of spices in dishes;

Factors that provoke a perforated ulcer:

  • weakening of the immune forces of the body;
  • poor sleep, lack of sleep;
  • prolonged exposure to stress;
  • long-term use of certain medications can also provoke perforation of an ulcer in the stomach: anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal, anticoagulants, chemicals, corticosteroids;
  • smoking;
  • alcoholism;
  • malnutrition (dry meals, snacks on the go, too hot or cold food, fatty and fried foods);
  • hereditary predisposition;
  • other pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract.

Clinical picture of gastric perforation

Sudden sharp pain in the upper abdomen speaks of a perforated ulcer. This pain is so intense that it is difficult for the person to move. He takes a forced position - the so-called fetal position: lying on his side with his knees pressed to his stomach. At the same time, the abdomen is tense, every touch to it brings pain.

An unusual and sudden pallor of the patient's skin is striking, cold sweat appears.

The patient complains of "flies" before his eyes. The blood pressure drops, but the pulse remains normal. Breathing is frequent and shallow.

If during this period the patient is not taken to a hospital where he will be provided with qualified medical care, he may die.

Methods of diagnosis and treatment

Pathology can be diagnosed in the following ways:

  • the most effective radiological methods;
  • electrogastroenterography;
  • endoscopic methods;

  • leukocytosis is detected in a clinical blood test;
  • laparoscopy.

Treatment of perforated gastric ulcer is only operational.

Therefore, it is necessary to deliver the patient to the hospital as soon as possible. You can not drink any medicines, warm the stomach. It is also important to remember that older people may not feel too much pain.

Sometimes, before the onset of peritonitis, a person may feel a deceptive relief. But after a short period of time, the pain returns again, which indicates the onset of inflammation of the peritoneum.

Ulcer and teetotaler - synonyms

If it so happened that a person became a patient of a gastroenterologist, then you need to start with a healthy lifestyle:

  • stop drinking alcohol, smoking;
  • You should eat right, take food often and in small doses.

It is advisable to exclude fatty, spicy, too salty from the diet, it is better to refuse carbonated drinks, coffee, strong tea. Exclude sausage, smoked meats, confectionery.

It is especially important to stick to a diet during an exacerbation. You need to eat at least six times a day in small portions. The emphasis should be on mashed soups, steamed cutlets. When the condition improves somewhat, you can add a soft-boiled egg, grated boiled vegetables, applesauce, stale bread, boiled meat and fish.

It is important to avoid stressful situations. It is stress that most often leads to an exacerbation of the ulcerative process, to its occurrence in general.

Good rest and sound sleep is important. You should go to bed and wake up at the same time.

Patients registered at the dispensary are offered to undergo a course of preventive treatment in a hospital twice a year.

You should not refuse this, since an ulcer can lead to very disastrous consequences: a person can remain disabled or die at a young age.

Diseases of the stomach occupy not the last place among the known diseases affecting mankind. The pattern has been observed for centuries of the existence of medical science and practice. Problems of peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum remain of high importance. The article discusses in detail the danger of gastric ulcers, especially perforated or degenerated into cancer.

Ulcerative lesions of the epithelial layers of the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum gradually penetrate into the submucosal, then into the muscle layers of the wall of the digestive organs. In severe cases, a through hole is formed with the expiration of gastric contents. The ulcerative process is able to spread to tissues and organs adjacent to the stomach. Pathological phenomena are attributed to the consequences and complications of peptic ulcer. Unfortunately, the pathology has become widespread. To provide the patient with qualified assistance, it is necessary to determine with accuracy what causes a stomach ulcer. Pathologies of peptic ulcer are acute and long-term consequences.

The causes of ulcers are infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, malnutrition, prolonged fasting, and the use of a number of drugs that irritate the stomach. Often develops an acute stomach ulcer on a nervous basis. The main symptoms are pain, heartburn, bloating, nausea and vomiting. Constipation often develops. Diarrhea, excruciating diarrhea with an ulcer is less common. Pain is sometimes associated with eating, often makes the patient starve, despite increased appetite.

Deterioration in the quality of life

Such a consequence of peptic ulcer disease is not too noticeable at first glance, but it is of no small importance. In connection with the deterioration of the patient's condition, the patient is forced to adjust his lifestyle to the course of the disease, he begins to get fat against the background of physical inactivity and sparing nutrition. The behavior of the patient leads to a forced abandonment of daily habits.

Risk factors for peptic ulcers are physical and psychological. Each attack of an ulcer can result in the development of a complication. Increased appetite leads to fullness.

Psychological factors

Serious anatomical and pathophysiological transformations occur in the patient's body, the disease affects the nervous and mental activity of a person, leading to the development of depressive states and psychological inversion. Psychologists defended dissertations on this topic.

The patient becomes irritable, depressed, nervous, quickly tired. This is due to constant pain, belching and heartburn, the inability to eat your favorite foods, the need to abandon the usual way of life.

Many patients looking for ways to lose weight go on strict diets and end up with stomach ulcers.

Correction

In such a case, psychotherapeutic correction has a good effect. The patient is tuned in to the idea that the prognosis of peptic ulcer is often absolutely favorable, they are taught to live, having adapted to new conditions. It is important for the patient to be aware of the importance and necessity of regular treatment, diet and regimen. It is important to explain to the patient what consequences a long-term untreated ulcer is fraught with. Patients who are not aware of the danger of the disease are given a number of examples when an untreated ulcer of the stomach angle was complicated by bleeding, perforation or degeneration into a malignant tumor.

Pharmacotherapy of peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum includes the appointment of antimicrobial drugs (triple or quadruple therapy), a decrease in the acidity of gastric juice, immunomodulators (ASD stimulant). Drugs are expensive, include contraindications, especially during pregnancy, folk remedies are constantly used. After complex treatment, the corner of the body of the stomach should completely heal, a scar is formed. Nutrition with an ulcer is shown sparing, with a content of vitamins and nutrients.

Patients often ask if stomach ulcers are contagious. The cause of the disease is the causative agent of the ulcer Helicobacter pylori, which is transmitted from one person to another when using common utensils and long-term joint meals. A dissertation was defended on the mentioned topic in the 60s of the last century. To combat the pathogen, antibiotics are prescribed that have an antiseptic effect and an immunomodulator (ASD) used to increase the body's resistance.

internal bleeding

The consequences of the disease are the occurrence of a relapse, the healing of a peptic ulcer, the transition of the disease to a chronic form or the development of complications that pose a direct threat to the patient's life and are recommended for elimination in the next few hours after the onset. Internal gastric bleeding often accompanies gastric and duodenal ulcers. It happens because the erosive process corrodes the mucous and submucosal layer, reaching the walls of the vessels that supply the organ with blood.

The bursting wall of the vessel leads to the development of bleeding, the development of acute or chronic anemia. With heavy blood loss, hemorrhagic shock is possible. Dissertations on this topic have been defended and published by many scientists.

Symptoms of a bleeding stomach ulcer:

  1. The patient may experience vomiting that contains blood impurities or resembles coffee grounds in appearance.
  2. Blood may also appear in the patient's stool. With a small amount of bleeding, blood can be detected in the clinical analysis of feces.
  3. If the bleeding is heavy, the stool takes on the appearance of tar - it becomes black and unformed.
  4. The appearance of vomiting is usually preceded by excruciating nausea, complaints of pain in the epigastrium. The patient's tongue turns bright red.
  5. With massive blood loss, there is a decrease in the volume of circulating blood in the vascular bed, leading to a decrease in blood pressure, an increase in the pulse, which acquires a weak threadlike character.
  6. The skin and visible mucous membranes become pale. The patient feels an acute attack of weakness and dizziness. Possible loss of consciousness.
Bleeding in the stomach with an ulcer

The main condition for a favorable prognosis for gastrointestinal bleeding is timely detection. If the blood loss is small, the clinical symptoms may not be pronounced, which leads to a significant delay in the appearance of characteristic external symptoms. In such cases, the first clinical sign that can disturb the patient and force him to seek help from specialists will be the development of the clinical picture of iron deficiency hypochromic anemia. The patient may not notice other symptoms for a long time.

If bleeding has occurred in the lumen of the stomach and into the intestines, the diagnosis is easier than with hemorrhage in the abdominal cavity. If the spill came from a large vessel, at the same time the patient begins to vomit, and the general condition worsens.

First aid for a stomach ulcer in this case consists in the immediate hospitalization of the patient in a surgical hospital, the introduction of hemostatic drugs, and replenishment of the volume of lost blood. Treatment of gastric bleeding consists of fluid therapy, cauterization of the ulcer and the bleeding vessel, and surgical closure to allow the ulcer to heal. After stopping, dispensary observation is required.

Perforation of stomach ulcer

Perforation is a frequent exacerbation of the disease. Every tenth patient suffering from peptic ulcer has a similar life-threatening complication. In men, it is observed much more often than women. As a rule, the disease becomes the lot of the stronger sex of a young age.

An ulcer refers to diseases that become aggravated in spring and autumn; in the off-season, a perforated stomach ulcer is most often observed. The lesion can heal for a long time. A hunger strike is capable of provoking perforation, when a patient who has been starving for a long time suddenly feels severe pain.

Clinical stages

In the perforation clinic, it is customary to distinguish 3 stages:

  • Shock phase.
  • Phase of imaginary improvement.
  • phase of acute peritonitis.

The shock stage develops when the stomach wall ruptures and the contents of the organ begin to flow into the free abdominal cavity. Rupture of the stomach wall, irritation of the acidic contents of the sheets of the peritoneum, which has a rich innervation, leads to acute unbearable pain in the patient. Patients describe symptoms as being stabbed or stabbed in the abdomen. Pain occurs in the upper floors of the abdominal cavity, extends to the entire abdomen.

In some patients, psychomotor agitation develops from pain, they begin to rush about, scream loudly, complaining of severe pain. The deterioration of general well-being is rapidly growing, the skin turns pale and is covered with cold sweat. The patient's pulse may slow down, blood pressure decreases. On palpation there is a significant tension of the abdominal muscles. As a rule, the patient rarely allows touching the abdomen. The most characteristic for a patient with a perforated ulcer is the lying position on the side with the legs brought to the stomach, bent at the knees. The tongue remains wet.

After 6-7 hours, with the onset of the second stage, the patient subjectively becomes better, the complexion and pulse normalize, and pain decreases. Sometimes there is a complete disappearance of pain, a decrease in muscle tension on the abdominal wall. The language remains the same. A characteristic feature is the absence of intestinal noises when trying to auscultate the study. The patient's pulse may increase, there is a violation of the heart rhythm. The decrease in blood pressure remains for a long time. Such a false improvement occurs over a long period of time, often misleading patients and forcing them to refuse the proposed surgical treatment, as a result, a day or two is lost.

Gradually, the patient develops a picture of the stage of diffuse peritonitis. The general condition is rapidly deteriorating. The patient becomes lethargic, the skin acquires a grayish-earthy hue, covered with sticky cold sweat. The tongue becomes dry and coated. The anterior abdominal wall becomes sharply tense. A characteristic feature is a decrease in the amount of urine excreted to anuria.

Atypical form of perforation

In some cases, patients develop an atypical form of perforation, when a painful breakthrough occurs in the retroperitoneal space. Perforation can be covered by the walls of nearby organs. If a patient develops a large number of adhesions in the abdominal cavity, they help limit the spread of food masses in the abdominal cavity.

With the described form of perforation of the gastric ulcer, the symptoms are much less pronounced. Cases when perforation heals spontaneously are known. Complications of perforation are considered to be the following conditions:

  1. Sepsis due to infection.
  2. Infectious-toxic or hypovolemic shock.
  3. Abscesses in the abdominal cavity, retroperitoneal space.
  4. Hypovolemia.
Atypical perforation leads to hypovolemia

If the first signs of gastric perforation occur, it is necessary to immediately call an emergency team and hospitalize the patient in a surgical hospital. This is urgent help for peptic ulcer disease.

The patient is undergoing emergency surgery. The center of perforation is sutured or a part of the stomach is resected. The abdominal cavity is washed out, peritoneal dialysis is performed. After discharge from the hospital, a dispensary observation is established over the patient.

penetration

The germination of an ulcer in neighboring organs and tissues is called penetration. If the ulcer is localized on the posterior wall of the bulbar duodenum, it most often penetrates into the head of the pancreas. Less commonly, penetration occurs into the bile ducts or lobes of the liver. Sprouting into the colon and mesentery becomes a rare form.

Ulcers of the middle part of the stomach grow into the body of the pancreas and leaves of the lesser omentum.

Symptoms

Manifestations of complications of peptic ulcer:

  1. The pain, which is localized in the epigastric region, takes on a permanent character and becomes intense.
  2. The cyclicity of pain, dependence on the time of day, food intake is lost.
  3. Depending on the place of germination, irradiation develops in a certain organ of pain sensations.
  4. At the site of the projection of penetration, local pain and inflammatory changes appear.
  5. A slight increase in temperature is possible. The tongue is covered with a white coating.

Multiple ulcers

A dangerous symptom is a mirror ulcer of the stomach, in which ulcerative lesions are opposite each other. The danger of the symptom is the blurring and lack of expression of the clinical picture, which is why there is a significant delay in seeking help. In such a case, an urgent examination by a specialist is required.

Treatment of multiple ulcers in the disease is conservative and surgical. With the ineffectiveness of medications, surgical treatment is performed. Possible stem vagotomy. If the ulcers are small, not complicated, it is permissible to cauterize the gastric ulcer with a laser. After the course of treatment, dispensary observation is required.

Anastomotic ulcer is a frequent postoperative complication. Long-term and regular medical examination is necessary. If there is a steroid gastric ulcer, it is first necessary to exclude the drugs that cause it.

Cicatricial stenosis

A healed duodenal ulcer can lead to the development of cicatricial deformity and narrowing of the lumen of the duodenum or the area of ​​the pylorus. The evacuation of food through the digestive tube is disrupted, putrefactive processes begin to develop in the stomach, worsening the condition, causing belching with a sour or putrid odor. In a short time, significant weight loss develops.

Treatment of cicatricial stenosis in gastric and duodenal ulcers is carried out surgically. After plastic surgery in the place where the cicatricial stenosis was located, the patient needs a long-term rehabilitation. A healed defect in the stomach wall can become malignant.

Patients with a healed duodenal ulcer, a calm stomach should be regularly examined and monitored by the attending physician. A medical certificate is issued. Chronic pyloric ulcer or multiple ulceration can relapse, lead to deformation of the stomach and duodenal bulb. After the operation, an anastomotic ulcer may form, the scarring of which leads to additional complications.

Malignization

A dangerous complication is the malignant degeneration of GU. It occurs not only where the ulcer of the body of the stomach was observed, but also at the location of the healed stomach ulcer.

An ulcer is quite capable of turning into cancer. In such a case, it is important to decide which doctor treats the disease - a surgeon or an oncologist. In addition to the diagnostic study of FGDS, a histological examination of tissues is indicated.

With malignancy, appetite decreases, a rapidly losing weight patient should take into account the possibility of getting infiltrative-ulcerative stomach cancer and undergo an examination on time. Cancer syndrome is primary, has clinical differences from malignancy. The ulcerative process, turning into infiltrating cancer, shows distinctive features, but is no less dangerous to life. It is impossible to get cancer.

Physiotherapy for gastric ulcer, complicated by malignancy, is contraindicated, but is used in other forms in the recovery period.

gastrotract.ru

stomach ulcer

A stomach ulcer (peptic ulcer, peptic ulcer) is a chronic disease in which a defect is formed in the wall of the stomach. Diseases of the stomach are common in modern society. A stomach ulcer is one of the most dangerous.

A stomach ulcer occurs due to an increase in the aggressive properties of gastric contents on the gastric mucosa and / or a weakening of its protective properties. A stomach ulcer usually occurs for one of two reasons:

  • infection caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (about 70% of cases);
  • exposure to alcohol, nicotine, as well as taking medications, primarily non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): aspirin, indomethacin, piroxicam, ibuprofen, diclofenac, etc. (about 25% of cases).
The development of stomach ulcers contribute to:
  • genetic predisposition,
  • neuropsychic stress,
  • inaccuracies in nutrition: irregular meals, dry food, abuse of spicy dishes, spices, marinades and pickles, etc.

What are the types of stomach ulcers?

Gastric ulcer is classified according to location:
  • cardiac and subcardial regions of the stomach,
  • stomach body,
  • antrum of the stomach,
  • pyloric canal.

According to the number of ulcerative defects, single and multiple ulcers are distinguished.

Depending on the size, a stomach ulcer is called:

  • small (diameter up to 0.5 cm),
  • medium (diameter 0.6-1.9 cm),
  • large (diameter 2.0-3.0 cm),
  • giant (diameter over 3.0 cm).
When specifying the diagnosis of "gastric ulcer", the stage of the course of the disease (exacerbation, scarring, remission) is usually specified.

How does a stomach ulcer manifest itself?

Gastric ulcer is characterized by seasonal (spring and autumn) exacerbations. With an exacerbation of a stomach ulcer, the patient is concerned about pain in the epigastric region, which can radiate to the left half of the chest and back. With a stomach ulcer, pain usually occurs after a meal (unlike a duodenal ulcer, which is characterized by "hunger pain"). An exacerbation of a stomach ulcer can cause digestive disorders, accompanied by heartburn, sour belching, nausea, and constipation. Sometimes vomiting of acidic stomach contents is possible. During the period of exacerbation of gastric ulcers, appetite persists, however, patients, in an effort to prevent pain, restrict themselves in food, and therefore often lose weight.

A stomach ulcer in some cases (according to some reports, in every third patient) proceeds hidden. An ulcer can penetrate into the submucosal layer of the stomach wall and, when healed, form a scar, in contrast to erosion (superficial damage to the gastric mucosa). A stomach ulcer is prone to progression with involvement in the pathological process of other organs of the digestive system, as well as with the development of life-threatening complications.

In 15-20% of patients with gastric ulcer, ulcerative bleeding is observed, which can be manifested by vomiting of the “coffee grounds” type or black tarry stools, weakness, loss of consciousness, lowering blood pressure, etc. Perforation (perforation) occurs in 5-15% of patients with gastric ulcer ulcers, manifested by acute ("dagger") pain in the epigastric region. Perforation of a stomach ulcer leads to the development of diffuse peritonitis.

How to diagnose a stomach ulcer?

If a stomach ulcer is suspected, x-rays are usually taken. To clarify the localization, depth, shape, size of a stomach ulcer, endoscopy is prescribed. During endoscopic examination of the stomach, a biopsy of the affected area of ​​the gastric mucosa is usually performed: a histological analysis of the material obtained makes it possible to exclude oncological pathology. Diagnosis of an ulcer includes a study of the acid-forming function of the stomach. To detect gastric bleeding, a fecal occult blood test is performed.

To determine the tactics of treating gastric ulcers, the identification of H. pylori infection is of fundamental importance, which is carried out by one of the following methods:

  • enzyme immunoassay to detect antibodies to H. pylori in the blood,
  • bacteriological culture with the determination of the sensitivity of the resulting culture of H. pylori to various antibacterial drugs,
  • histological analysis of biopsies of the gastric mucosa,
  • biochemical analysis of biopsies of the gastric mucosa ("urease test"),
  • analysis of the air exhaled by the patient (“breath test”) for the presence of the H. pylori waste product - ammonia,
  • enzyme immunoassay to detect H. pylori antigens in feces,
  • detection of H. pylori DNA (in biopsies of the gastric mucosa, saliva, feces, etc.) using polymerase chain reaction.

How to treat a stomach ulcer?

As an "ambulance" for the elimination and prevention of abdominal pain, heartburn and other digestive disorders in stomach ulcers, antacids are used in various complex compounds of aluminum, calcium and magnesium: phosphalugel, maalox, almagel, almagel A, gastal, rennie. Antihistamines are also used, for example, famotidine (Kvamatel, Gastromax).

With exacerbations of gastric ulcers and to ensure scarring of the ulcer, regular intake of drugs from the group of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) is prescribed: rabeprazole (pariet, razo), omeprazole (omep, losec, gasek), lansoprazole (lancerol, lanza, lanzap), pantoprazole (controller , pulcet), esomeprazole (nexium). After 6-8 weeks, an endoscopic examination is performed to control the scarring of the stomach ulcer and a decision is made on the need for further PPIs.

Each patient with a stomach ulcer who has an H. pylori infection, regardless of the stage of the course of the disease, is prescribed anti-Helicobacter therapy (H. pylori eradication is carried out). As a first-line treatment for H. pylori-associated gastric ulcer, one of the following 7-day regimens is recommended:

  1. PPI (pariet, losek) + clarithromycin (clabax, fromilid, clacid) + amoxicillin (flemoxin, amoxil, danemox);
  2. PPI (pariet, losek) + clarithromycin (clabax, fromilid, klacid) + metronidazole (trichopolum, flagyl).

If these anti-Helicobacter therapy regimens are ineffective, a second “reserve” line of treatment is recommended: PPI (pariet, losek) + colloidal bismuth subcitrate (de-nol, vis-nol) + tetracycline (tetracycline hydrochloride) or dokycycline (doxycycline, unidox solutab) + metronidazole ( trichopolum, flagil).

In the treatment of stomach ulcers, herbal medicine is widely used, for example, gastrointestinal collection (calamus rhizomes, peppermint leaves, chamomile flowers, licorice roots, dill fruits), the components of which can be taken separately.

Diseases of the stomach involves severe dietary restrictions: alcohol, spicy, rough foods are excluded. Diet No. 1 is prescribed, which stimulates the processes of restoration of the gastric mucosa. Food is taken boiled, but not mashed. (Sparing diets No. 1a and No. 1b are prescribed only for exacerbation for 2-3 days, and then patients return to diet No. 1).

Some experts question the need to prescribe diet therapy for gastric ulcers, since the effect of special medical nutrition on the healing time of the ulcer has not been proven.

Why is a stomach ulcer dangerous?

Can a stomach ulcer be complicated by such life-threatening conditions? how:
  • ulcer bleeding,
  • perforation (perforation) of the ulcer,
  • penetration (penetration) of a stomach ulcer into surrounding tissues,
  • the formation of adhesions between the stomach and neighboring organs (pancreas, liver, gallbladder),
  • malignant gastric ulcer.

zdravoe.com

Why is a stomach ulcer dangerous?

Statistics say: every tenth person on the planet suffers from a peptic ulcer, also known as a stomach ulcer. To a greater extent, men under 50 years of age with the first blood group and women during menopause are susceptible to it. What are the causes of peptic ulcer, why is it dangerous and what ways to cure it exist, we will tell in our article.

Gastric ulcer: symptoms

Gastric and duodenal ulcers are erosive lesions of the mucous membrane, which differ from ordinary erosion by deeper penetration into the walls of the gastroduodenal zone (stomach and duodenum). Signs of a stomach ulcer are very specific, so an experienced specialist can determine its presence already according to the patient's complaints during the initial examination. Patients with ulcers usually complain of:

  • local pains in the area of ​​the stomach (under the pit of the stomach), which are permanent or paroxysmal in nature. Depending on the location of the ulcer in the stomach, the pain may intensify a few minutes or hours after the start of a meal, or, conversely, subside during a meal;

  • periodic feeling of heaviness, heartburn, overcrowding of the stomach;
  • nausea, which after about 0.5-1.5 hours after eating is replaced by vomiting, after which relief and a decrease in pain occur. Vomit contains undigested food and blotches of bile;
  • irregular stools and constipation, especially during an exacerbation of the disease;
  • improvement in appetite, which is a consequence of increased production of gastric juice;
  • weight loss, because because of the pain associated with eating, a person tries to reduce its consumption;

  • violation of the psycho-emotional background: increased nervousness, anxiety, fatigue, excessive aggressiveness.

Usually the disease develops gradually, and the listed symptoms appear in stages. However, there are cases when the disease is asymptomatic, manifesting itself only at the peak - during the period of exacerbation.

What is the risk of stomach ulcers?

A stomach ulcer is dangerous in itself, but its complications, which can eventually lead to death, pose an even greater threat to human health. If the disease is diagnosed late and left untreated or treated incorrectly, it can lead to:

  • gastrointestinal bleeding. Its symptoms are attacks of sudden weakness, black vomiting and dark loose stools. The patient may lose consciousness, meanwhile, the pain in the abdomen subsides;
  • perforation. A perforated ulcer leads to the formation of through holes in the walls of the stomach, through which its contents enter the abdominal cavity, provoking peritonitis - inflammation of the peritoneum. This condition is accompanied by acute attacks of pain and muscle spasms in the stomach area;
  • penetration - the spread of ulcers to other organs, most often to the pancreas. As a result, its inflammation (pancreatitis) begins, accompanied by pain that is not relieved by antiulcer drugs, and fever;

  • stenosis - narrowing of the outlet canal of the stomach, which slows down the process of digestion of food, causes fetid vomiting, leads to metabolic disorders, decreased appetite and weight loss;
  • cancer. The oncological form of the disease is observed in 4 cases out of 100. Its signs may be a change in the nature of pain and the disappearance of the connection with meals, aversion to food, and increasing weakness.

To prevent complications, a stomach ulcer must be diagnosed in a timely manner. If you have frequent cases of heartburn, nausea and stomach pain, go to a gastroenterologist. You will be sent for blood tests, an endoscopy and possibly an x-ray, after which the doctor will determine what triggered the disease.

Causes of stomach ulcers

The internal environment of the stomach is very aggressive - it is necessary for the breakdown and digestion of food. However, even there there is a certain balance of substances that allow maintaining the mucous membrane in a healthy state. Violation of this balance leads to the formation of peptic ulcer. Factors that can change the balance and cause disease are:

  • increased acidity. The reasons for its increase may be the wrong diet, eating disorders, bad habits;
  • infection with the pathogenic bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which enters our body orally through food and cutlery that was eaten and used by carriers of this infection;

  • the ingress of the contents of the duodenum into the stomach, which occurs due to the pathology of the internal organs.

Additional factors that provoke stomach ulcers are smoking, alcohol abuse, unhealthy diet, stress and heredity. Therefore, the prevention of this disease is the rejection of nicotine and alcohol, a balanced diet, hygiene, moderate exercise and good rest.

How to treat a stomach ulcer?

A stomach and duodenal ulcer is treated depending on the course of the disease:

  • conservatively: in this case, drug treatment, physiotherapy and dietary nutrition are used in a complex manner;
  • surgically, when a resection (cut out) of the part of the stomach affected by an ulcer is performed, or minimally invasive procedures are performed to cause minimal damage to the body.

Drug therapy for stomach ulcers consists of taking antibiotics that kill the pathogenic microflora, antacids that neutralize the action of acid, and histamine blocking drugs that reduce the secretion of gastric juice. Surgical intervention is indicated when treatment with medications is ineffective, as well as in cases of complications.

Traditional medicine and stomach ulcers

A stomach ulcer is one of those diseases for which self-medication is categorically unacceptable. Of course, there are folk ways to deal with this disease, but you can use them only after consulting with your doctor, since some of them only remove the symptoms of the disease, creating the illusion of recovery. But they can be used as an aid.

potato juice

Relieves pain and reduces acidity. The recipe is simple: peel raw potatoes and squeeze the juice using a juicer or ordinary gauze, putting pre-grated tubers into it. Drink three times a day 30-40 minutes before meals: in the first week, 20 g at a time, in the second - 40, in the third - 60, in the fourth - 100.

Hypericum infusion

Pour 15 g of dried grass with 200 ml of boiling water and leave to brew overnight. Then strain, add chilled boiled water to the previous volume of 200 ml and take for two weeks 50 ml three times a day about 30 minutes before meals. St. John's wort is considered a natural antibiotic.

Plantain infusion

Pour 1 teaspoon of plantain into a glass of boiling water and let it brew for 15 minutes. Drink before meals 3 times a day the whole glass.

Aloe leaf tincture

To make a tincture, you will need a plant that has reached the age of at least 3 years. Aloe should not be watered for 2 weeks, and only after this time, cut off the leaves. Grind 250 g of leaves into gruel, add the same amount of honey and mix. Constantly stirring, heat the mixture to 50-60 °C. Add 500 ml of red wine, stir and put in a dark place for a week. Drink 1 tablespoon an hour before meals. Course - 21 days.

Diet for stomach ulcers

Properly selected nutrition for stomach ulcers is the key to a speedy recovery. From the menu of the patient-ulcer should be excluded:

  • fatty, salty, spicy, fried foods;
  • wholemeal bread, stale pastries, muffins;
  • white cabbage, turnips, radishes, tomatoes;
  • citrus fruits, as well as sour berries;
  • mushrooms, regardless of the method of preparation;

  • chips, popcorn, seeds, corn flakes, nuts;
  • smoked meats, sausages, lard and other offal;
  • very hot and too cold food.

What to eat with a stomach ulcer:

  • soft-boiled eggs (no more than 4 per week), steamed scrambled eggs;
  • vegetable soups and soups cooked on the second broth;
  • boiled, stewed or steamed zucchini, pumpkin, potatoes, carrots, beets;
  • cereals seasoned with vegetable oil.

You should eat 5-6 times a day, breaking your daily allowance into small portions. In no case do not starve and do not overeat!

A video on the topic "Stomach Ulcer: Symptoms and Treatment" will tell you about five rules for protecting against this disease.

megapoisk.com

What is dangerous stomach ulcer

If a peptic ulcer is left untreated, it can lead to a perforated ulcer and other serious life-threatening problems.

Ulcer perforation

A rapidly developing peptic ulcer is often complicated by perforation of the ulcer. And when an ulcer perforates, even the most persistent person bends in pain at one moment. What is a perforation of an ulcer? Imagine a stomach —essentially it is a hollow sac filled with some food and acidic gastric juice. When an ulcer perforates, it pierces the wall of the stomach through and through, and all the contents from the stomach flow out together with caustic gastric juice into the peritoneum - this causes unbearable pain. Perforation of the ulcer occurs suddenly. And if it has already happened, expect that, perhaps, it will be combined with bleeding. It is easy to cause a perforated ulcer if you often torment the stomach with spicy, fatty, fried and salty foods. Symptoms of a perforated stomach ulcer: a person suddenly bends over from an attack of severe pain in the upper abdomen or navel. The abdominal muscles are strongly strained, forming the so-called plank-shaped abdomen. The pain evenly moves to the iliac region, "under the spoon." The suffering of a patient with a perforated ulcer will not end quickly; without medical assistance, he will die only after a few days - from peritonitis (purulent inflammation of the peritoneum).

If there is a perforation of the ulcer, only the efficiency and literacy of the doctors of the "Ambulance" can save. In the hospital, with the help of modern techniques - endoscopic techniques - if they can, they will perform an operation and stop the bleeding. But, having arisen once, it can be repeated at any moment ...

If the walls of the stomach are soldered to other organs

Often, with a peptic ulcer, the walls of the stomach become soldered to one of the neighboring organs, for example, the intestines or pancreas. Gradually, the ulcer penetrates into this organ. This situation is less dangerous than perforation of the ulcer, because in this case the ulcer still remains closed, and infection of the abdominal cavity with bacteria does not occur. But even with such spikes, you can die. It is especially dangerous if the ulcer has grown into the pancreas. This organ is very sensitive to any kind of injury. Therefore, when an ulcer crashes into it, acute pancreatitis can develop in a matter of hours, and it in itself is even more dangerous than any complication of peptic ulcer disease. Most often, such a tragedy occurs in chronic patients with peptic ulcer, who, although treated, do not complete the treatment. But perforation occurs more often in young people with little experience of the disease.

Bleeding

With a stomach ulcer and duodenal ulcer, internal bleeding often begins from the affected organ. An ulcer itself is a wound in the wall of the stomach or intestines. If left untreated, it spreads deeper and can reach the blood vessel and "eat away" its walls. There are many such vessels in the stomach, and the vascular network of this organ is large, so peptic ulcer disease is often complicated by internal bleeding. Most often, bleeding from an ulcer occurs suddenly, for no apparent reason. But if one of the ulcers wants to speed up the event and provoke bleeding, it is necessary in the morning and without breakfast to smoke several cigarettes in a row, drink strong coffee and go to work, where it is imperative to get nervous a couple of times. We assure you, you can die from internal bleeding very soon. Symptoms of internal bleeding: a sudden onset of a feeling of helplessness, dizziness, cool sweat, drowsiness, a sense of horror, increased heart rate. When a lot of blood accumulates in the stomach, the patient may vomit. Due to interaction with hydrochloric acid, the blood turns dark brown (vomiting "coffee grounds"). It happens that bleeding develops slowly, and the patient, without knowing it, manages to digest a fair amount of his blood. In this case, the stool becomes black  - this is another sign of bleeding in the stomach or intestines.

The most dangerous - bleeding from large vessels. In 15-20 minutes a person can lose several liters of blood. Such bleeding is the surest and fastest way to go to the next world. Patients who stubbornly refuse to be treated sooner or later die either from internal bleeding or from perforation of the ulcer.

Pyloric stenosis

What is a gatekeeper? This is the end section of the stomach that connects it to the duodenum. In the pylorus zone, ulcers form especially often, because the harmful bacterium Helicobacter likes to settle here, provoking the formation of an ulcer. In addition, the acidity of gastric juice is the highest here. But Helicobacter does not care. According to the anatomical structure, the pylorus is a narrow canal equipped with muscle rings, they are able to contract and relax. During contraction, the pylorus closes and the stomach cavity separates from the intestinal cavity. When relaxed, the pylorus expands, and part of the food from the stomach passes into the duodenum for digestion. With pyloric stenosis, its irreversible narrowing and deformation occurs. If the ulcer affects this section, the exit from the stomach is practically transformed into a large hard scar that does not let food into the duodenum. The first symptoms of pyloric stenosis may appear many years after the onset of peptic ulcer. It all starts with a feeling of fullness in the stomach after eating, heaviness and pain in the stomach, sour belching with a nasty odor. A person complains that after a long time after he has eaten, he hears “liquid splashing” in the stomach, the stomach seems to be full. A characteristic symptom of pyloric stenosis is vomiting. In the later stages of the disease, when the ulcer actually blocks the exit from the stomach to the intestines, vomiting occurs every time after eating. This eases the suffering of the patient, but dooms him to death from exhaustion. Because sooner or later the communication between the stomach and intestines is completely broken.

Treatment of pyloric stenosis is only surgical. During the operation, the affected part of the stomach is removed, and the healthy part of the organ is sutured to the duodenum to restore patency.

Stomach cancer

Malignant degeneration of gastric ulcer  is the most serious complication of peptic ulcer disease. The surface of stomach cancer is very similar to an ulcer, so it is difficult for a doctor to distinguish between them. An ulcer can degenerate into a malignant formation, or it can appear on a cancerous tumor, but this happens less often. A malignant ulcer becomes in people who suffer from it throughout their lives. Cancer of the stomach may not declare itself for a long time. The first symptoms of cancer are the appearance of other pains that are not characteristic of a peptic ulcer. If with an ulcer the pains calm down after eating, then with cancer the stomach hurts regardless of the meal and the pains become constant, painful. Food intolerance, weight loss are also striking symptoms of stomach cancer. Identified in the initial stages, it is completely curable - in oncology, the affected part of the stomach is removed. But in the later stages of cancer, in the presence of metastases to other organs, the cancer is difficult to cure, and the operation often does not give positive results.

O. V. Tokmakova, gastroenterologist, doctor of the highest category

Peptic ulcer disease is characterized by the formation of a defect in the gastric wall. The process proceeds in a chronic form with periods of exacerbation and remission. Pathology is dangerous because of the risk of developing severe complications with a fatal outcome.

Passed into the pathology of gastric ulcer is life-threatening.

Degree of risk and complications

Consequences of a stomach ulcer:

  • bleeding from ulcerated wounds;
  • perforation of the defect;
  • penetration of the ulcer into nearby tissues;
  • adhesion between the walls of the stomach and surrounding organs (pancreas, liver, gallbladder);
  • transformation into cancer.

Perforation

A rapidly ongoing peptic ulcer threatens with perforation, accompanied by intense and severe pain. In fact, perforation of an ulcer is a through opening of a wound from the cavity into the abdominal wall, in which aggressive gastric contents with digestive juice flow into the peritoneum. The process causes severe pain.

Ulcer perforation is always unexpected and associated with bleeding. The main provoking factor in the perforation of ulcerative wounds is a violation of the diet and diet of the patient through the abuse of spicy, fatty, fried, oversalted. The symptoms of perforation are bright and pronounced:

  • powerful paroxysmal pain in the epigastric part of the abdomen and in the oculo-umbilical zone;
  • overstrain of the muscle tissue of the abdominal wall according to the type of effect of the "board-shaped abdomen";
  • a uniform shift of pain in the iliac (pit of the stomach) area.

The clinical picture is characterized by a long development with a strong intensity. Without the provision of emergency medical care, the patient may die in the near future from pain shock and developed peritonitis, suggesting purulent inflammation of the tissues of the abdominal cavity.

When the ulcer is perforated, the only option to save a life is surgery and the qualifications of the ambulance team. Perforation of ulcerative defects repeatedly recurs after stopping a single case.

What is dangerous bleeding with a stomach ulcer


With a stomach ulcer, there is a constant risk of stomach bleeding

An ulcer on the wall of the stomach is an open wound, so the development of internal bleeding is possible at any moment. There is a process due to the lack of timely treatment, which provokes the spread of the defect deep into the tissues up to the network of blood vessels. The inflammatory process leads to erosion of the walls of blood vessels, which are many in the hollow organ.

In most cases, bleeding from ulcers occurs suddenly, for no specific reason. The main provocateurs of complications are:

  • smoking on an empty stomach;
  • regular use of strong coffee;
  • constant stress.

Symptoms of the development of internal bleeding are bright and specific:

  • sudden feeling of helplessness;
  • dizziness;
  • strong cold sweat;
  • drowsiness, chronic fatigue;
  • feeling of horror;
  • sharp increase in heart rate.

With the accumulation of large volumes of blood in the stomach, the patient develops powerful vomiting of thick and dark thick due to a reaction with gastric acid. Bleeding can develop slowly, while the patient digests a large volume of his own blood, which leads to the formation of darkened stools. It is also a symptom of advanced bleeding.

The most dangerous is the development of bleeding from large vessels. Literally in 20 minutes the patient bleeds, losing up to several liters. This will lead to certain death.

Penetration into nearby tissues

One of the most common consequences of gastric ulcers is penetration into the tissues surrounding the affected organ. The process develops against the background of rapidly progressive destruction of the gastric walls with the formation of adhesions. Through them, the bottom of the ulcer is fixed to the adjacent organ. This blocks the breakthrough of the ulcer into the free peritoneum. There are two development options:

  • after the destruction of the deep layers of the stomach, the ulcer reaches the surface of a nearby organ without destruction of its tissues;
  • penetration of an ulcer through the tissues of the stomach into the surface of a nearby organ with the destruction of its parenchyma and the formation of a defect of different depths in it.

Penetration is more often exposed to ulcerative defects on the posterior wall of the stomach. Penetration is carried out in the pancreas, the channel between the liver and the duodenal duct, the liver, the stuffing bag. Perhaps the penetration of a large defect in the anterior part of the abdominal wall. The formation of an infiltrate provokes the development of a tumor process in the stomach.

Penetrating ulcers are characterized by a wide variety of symptoms. The complexity of diagnosis lies in the atypical development of the complication. In most cases, a penetrating ulcer is similar in symptoms to acute cholecystitis, which is accompanied by:

  • pain shock;
  • disorders of the digestive system;
  • fever;
  • leukocytosis with a shift in the number of stab and fresh neutrophils.

The clinical picture may resemble hepatitis due to the penetration of the ulcer into the liver or hepatoduodenal canal. Symptoms:

  • severe tissue inflammation;
  • infiltration;
  • pericholecystitis;
  • mechanical jaundice;
  • diarrhea;
  • drastic weight loss.

Ulcerative penetration is accompanied by other complications, such as:

  • recurrent bleeding;
  • extensive inflammation;
  • deformation of the shape of the stomach.

Adhesions with nearby organs


An ulcer can affect nearby organs

An ulcer can gradually penetrate into another nearby organ, with the formation of adhesions between the wall of the stomach and intestines, pancreas, liver, omentum. The complication is less dangerous, since the defect remains closed, therefore bacterial infection of the abdominal cavity is excluded.

Especially dangerous is the germination of an ulcer from the stomach into the pancreas due to the increased sensitivity of this organ to injuries. When the ulcer is cut, pancreatitis soon develops, which is more dangerous than peptic ulcer. The complication develops against the background of incomplete treatment or its interruption for other reasons.