From the Editor
This weeks cover story is Peptic Ulcer. A peptic ulcer is an open sore on the lining of stomach, small intestine or esophagus. A peptic ulcer in the stomach is called a gastric ulcer. A duodenal ulcer is a peptic ulcer that develops in the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). An esophageal ulcer occurs in the lower part of the esophagus. Most common symptom of peptic ulcer is pain- mostly abdominal.
Not long ago, common belief was that peptic ulcers were a result of life style. Doctors now know that a bacterial infection, Helicobacter Pylorie, or medications - not stress or diet - cause most ulcers of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). Esophageal ulcers are typically associated with the reflux of stomach acid.
Ulcers develop when the lining of the stomach or duodenum is chronically inflamed or exposed to irritants, such as excess as pepsin. Almost everyone produces stomach acid, but only 1 to 10 people develop ulcers at some point during his or her lifetime.Many people with duodenal ulcers have helicobacter pylorie bacteria in their stomach, which are now considered a major cause of peptic ulcers. How the bacteria contribute to an ulcer is uncertain.
Recent medical advances have increased our understanding of ulcer formation. Improved and expanded treatment options are now available.
