Peptic Ulcers in Hattiesburg, MS

As explained above, a peptic ulcer develops when the tissue in the small intestine or stomach comes into contact with pepsin, which is commonly called stomach acid. This acid then begins to damage the tissue within the organ. There are two main reasons, however, for why erosion of the stomach lining takes place.

H. pylori

Helicobacter pylori, frequently known simply as H. pylori, is a bacteria that can enter your body in a number of ways. When it finds its way in, it can harm the layer of mucus lining the stomach. This leads to openings in that lining, which can result in ulcerations. When H. pylori is present, a doctor may recommend antibiotics to help eliminate the harmful bacteria.

Pain relievers

There are certain pain relievers, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, that can block your body from generating a chemical that functions to help protect the internal walls of your stomach and small intestine.

Other forms of pain medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), do not result in the formation of stomach and small intestine ulcers. This is one of the reasons why healthcare practitioners advise taking pain medication in small and controlled quantities.

Risk factors for peptic ulcers

Additional risk factors for developing duodenal or gastric ulcers are as follows:

• Drinking alcohol
• Stress
• Eating spicy and acidic foods
• Tobacco use
• Regular use of NSAID pain relievers

Our Hattiesburg, MS gastroenterologists are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of peptic ulcers and help determine what might be causing the GI condition.