KARACHI:
Peptic ulcers are bruises or sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, lower oesophagus, or small intestines (duodenum). A common cause of peptic ulcers is helicobacter pylori (H.pylori), which is a gram-negative bacillus that’s found inside the gastric epithelial cells. The bacteria stick to the layer of mucus in the digestive tract and cause inflammation, which can cause the protective lining to break down. Without a mucus lining, the acid eats into the stomach tissues. Another cause is NSAIDs, which are a group of medications used to relieve pain and often wear away the mucus layer in the digestive tract.
Some of the symptoms of the disease include vomiting, blood in stool, unexplained weight loss and changes in appetite. To reduce the risk of developing peptic ulcers, people must seek a doctor’s advice if they face any ulcer symptoms. Also, people should avoid the consumption of tobacco products and alcohol.
The disease can be treated with antisecretory drugs, which include histamine receptor blockers (H2 blockers) and the proton pump inhibitor (PPIs). The H2 receptor blockers have been replaced by PPIs because they have more effective healing properties. PPIs block acid production in the stomach, providing relief from symptoms and enabling recovery. However, long-term use of PPIs increases the risk of bone fractures, therefore, doctors may incorporate calcium supplements into the regimen. In some cases, a triple regimen comprising two antibiotics and a PPl is recommended, which involves the use of pantoprazole, clarithromycin, and metronidazole for 7 to 14 days. If this first-line therapy fails, quadruple therapy with bismuth and different antibiotics is used.
Rubab Khan
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, April 28th, 2022.
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