What are the common complications of stomach ulcers. How can ulcers lead to fatigue and anemia. When should you seek medical attention for ulcer symptoms. What are the warning signs of severe ulcer complications.

Understanding Stomach Ulcers and Their Potential Complications

Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. While complications from ulcers are relatively uncommon, they can be quite serious when they do occur. Understanding these potential complications is crucial for anyone diagnosed with or suspecting they may have a stomach ulcer.

What are stomach ulcers?

Stomach ulcers are breaks in the protective lining of the stomach. They can be caused by various factors, including:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection
• Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Excessive acid production in the stomach
• Stress and lifestyle factors

Internal Bleeding: A Common and Serious Complication

One of the most frequent complications associated with stomach ulcers is internal bleeding. This occurs when an ulcer develops at the site of a blood vessel in the stomach lining.

How does internal bleeding from ulcers manifest?

Internal bleeding from stomach ulcers can present in two main ways:

1. Slow, long-term bleeding: This can lead to anemia over time.
2. Rapid and severe bleeding: This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

What are the symptoms of slow, long-term bleeding?

Slow bleeding from a stomach ulcer can result in anemia, which may cause:

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• Heart palpitations (noticeable heartbeats)

What are the signs of rapid and severe bleeding?

Rapid and severe bleeding from a stomach ulcer can lead to more alarming symptoms, including:

• Vomiting blood
• Passing stools that are black, sticky, and tar-like

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention by contacting your healthcare provider or visiting the nearest emergency department.

The Link Between Stomach Ulcers and Fatigue

Many people wonder, “Can ulcers make you tired?” The answer is yes, they can. Fatigue is often one of the symptoms associated with stomach ulcers, particularly when they lead to anemia due to chronic blood loss.

How do stomach ulcers cause fatigue?

Stomach ulcers can cause fatigue through several mechanisms:

1. Anemia: Slow, chronic bleeding from an ulcer can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, resulting in fatigue.
2. Pain and discomfort: Persistent pain from ulcers can disrupt sleep and daily activities, leading to fatigue.
3. Nutritional deficiencies: Ulcers may interfere with proper nutrient absorption, potentially causing fatigue.
4. Stress: The stress of dealing with ulcer symptoms can contribute to overall fatigue.

When should you be concerned about fatigue related to ulcers?

If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue along with other symptoms of stomach ulcers, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend tests to check for anemia and other potential complications.

Perforation: A Rare but Serious Complication

While less common than internal bleeding, perforation is a severe complication of stomach ulcers that requires immediate medical attention.

What is stomach perforation?

Perforation occurs when a stomach ulcer breaks through the entire wall of the stomach, creating a hole. This allows the contents of the stomach to leak into the abdominal cavity, potentially leading to a serious condition called peritonitis.

What are the symptoms of stomach perforation?

The primary symptom of stomach perforation is sudden, severe abdominal pain that progressively worsens. Other symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal swelling
• Shock (in severe cases)

If you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Gastric Outlet Obstruction: When Ulcers Block the Digestive Path

Another potential complication of stomach ulcers is gastric outlet obstruction. This occurs when an inflamed or scarred ulcer prevents food from passing through the digestive system properly.

What are the symptoms of gastric outlet obstruction?

Gastric outlet obstruction can cause several distinct symptoms:

• Repeated episodes of vomiting, often containing undigested food
• Persistent bloating or feelings of fullness
• Feeling very full after eating small amounts of food
• Unintentional weight loss

How is gastric outlet obstruction diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis typically involves a gastroscopy to confirm the obstruction. Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• If caused by inflammation: Medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists may be used to reduce stomach acid levels.
• If caused by scar tissue: Surgery may be necessary, or in some cases, a balloon dilation procedure can be performed endoscopically.

Debunking Myths: Foods and Stress as Ulcer Causes

While certain foods and stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms, they are not the primary causes of ulcers as once believed.

Can specific foods cause stomach ulcers?

Contrary to popular belief, foods themselves do not cause ulcers. However, certain foods can trigger or worsen ulcer symptoms, such as:

• Spicy foods
• Acidic foods
• Alcohol
• Caffeine

What role does stress play in ulcer development?

While psychological stress was once thought to be the primary cause of ulcers, we now know that it’s not a direct cause. However, stress can:

• Exacerbate existing ulcer symptoms
• Potentially increase stomach acid production
• Lead to behaviors that may increase ulcer risk (e.g., smoking, excessive alcohol consumption)

When to Seek Medical Attention for Ulcer Symptoms

Knowing when to consult a healthcare professional about ulcer symptoms is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring proper treatment.

What symptoms warrant immediate medical attention?

Seek emergency care if you experience:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
• Black, tarry stools
• Signs of shock (rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fainting)

When should you consult your doctor about potential ulcer symptoms?

Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
• Ongoing fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Frequent indigestion or heartburn

Diagnosis and Treatment of Stomach Ulcers

Proper diagnosis and treatment of stomach ulcers are essential for preventing complications and promoting healing.

How are stomach ulcers diagnosed?

Diagnosis of stomach ulcers typically involves:

1. Medical history and physical examination
2. Blood tests to check for anemia and H. pylori infection
3. Endoscopy (gastroscopy) to visually examine the stomach lining
4. Biopsy during endoscopy to test for H. pylori and rule out cancer

What are the common treatments for stomach ulcers?

Treatment for stomach ulcers usually involves:

• Antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori infection if present
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid
• Protective medications to coat the ulcer and promote healing
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce irritants and promote healing

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat complications or ulcers that don’t respond to medication.

Understanding the potential complications of stomach ulcers, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical attention are crucial for managing this condition effectively. While ulcers can indeed cause fatigue and other troublesome symptoms, with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people can find relief and prevent serious complications. If you suspect you may have a stomach ulcer or are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.

Stomach ulcer – Complications – NHS

Complications of stomach ulcers are relatively uncommon, but they can be very serious if they happen.

Internal bleeding

Internal bleeding is the most common complication of stomach ulcers. It can happen when an ulcer develops at the site of a blood vessel.

The bleeding can either be:

• slow, long-term bleeding, leading to anaemia – causing fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin and heart palpitations (noticeable heartbeats)
• rapid and severe bleeding – causing you to vomit blood or pass stools that are black, sticky and tar-like

You should visit your GP if you have persistent symptoms of anaemia. If they think you may have a stomach ulcer, they may refer you to a gastroenterologist for an examination and treatment.

Contact your GP or NHS 111 immediately, or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department, if you have symptoms of more severe bleeding.

Treating internal bleeding

A gastroscopy will be used to identify the cause of the bleeding and treatment can often be given during this to stop the bleeding.

Sometimes specialised procedures carried out under X-ray guidance are used to stop bleeding ulcers, although surgery may occasionally be required to repair the affected blood vessel.

Blood transfusions may also be needed to replace the blood you have lost.

Perforation

A rarer complication of stomach ulcers is the lining of the stomach splitting open, known as perforation.

This can be very serious because it enables the bacteria that live in your stomach to escape and infect the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum). This is known as peritonitis.

In peritonitis, an infection can rapidly spread into the blood (sepsis) before spreading to other organs. This carries the risk of multiple organ failure and can be fatal if left untreated.

The most common symptom of peritonitis is sudden abdominal pain that gets steadily worse. 

If you have this type of pain, contact your GP immediately. If this isn’t possible, call NHS 111 or your local NHS out-of-hours service.

Peritonitis is a medical emergency that requires hospital admission. In some cases, surgery may be needed.

Read more about treating peritonitis.

Gastric outlet obstruction

In some cases, an inflamed (swollen) or scarred stomach ulcer can stop food from going through your digestive system. This is known as gastric outlet obstruction.

Symptoms can include:

• repeated episodes of vomiting, with large amounts of vomit that contain undigested food
• a persistent feeling of bloating or fullness
• feeling very full after eating less food than usual
• unintentional weight loss

A gastroscopy can be used to confirm the obstruction. If the obstruction is caused by inflammation, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or h3-receptor antagonists can be used to reduce stomach acid levels until the swelling goes down.

If the obstruction is caused by scar tissue, surgery may be needed to treat it, although it can sometimes be treated by passing a small balloon through an endoscope and inflating it to widen the site of the obstruction.

Page last reviewed: 14 January 2022
Next review due: 14 January 2025

Ask a Doc: What Causes Stomach Ulcers?

CS-Blog

Cedars-Sinai Blog

Dec 16, 2018
Cedars-Sinai Staff

Daily psychological stress isn’t clearly the sole cause of ulcers. But it can make symptoms worse.

The holidays can bring goodwill, cheer, and…ulcers?

Hosting relatives and last-minute shopping can cause stress—a rumored culprit of gastric (stomach) ulcers. And let’s not forget the potential for overindulging in winter cocktails and holiday feasts.

Can all of this holiday cheer lead you to opening antacids instead of presents?

To better understand ulcers and what causes them, we spoke with Dr. Quin Liu from the Interventional Gastroenterology program at Cedars-Sinai.

Is it true that certain foods can cause gastric ulcers?

Dr. Liu: No, that is a myth.

Foods themselves do not cause ulcers, but certain foods can cause typical symptoms of ulcers such as abdominal pain, burning sensation in the abdomen or chest area, or any abdominal discomfort.

When should I seek treatment for these symptoms?

Dr. Liu: You should seek treatment if the abdominal pain persists and intensifies to the point where it affects your daily life.

Seek treatment if you notice decreased appetite, fatigue, pain that interrupts your sleep or other normal activities, and change in your bowel habits. Most worrisome would be blood in your vomit or stool.

Read: Not Just a Stomach Ache: Symptoms of Appendicitis

Is it true that stress leads to ulcers?

Dr. Liu: Actually, this is partially true.

The two big causes of ulcers are physiological stress and infection. Physiological stress can come from a previous illness or trauma, undergoing a major surgery, and extreme physical activity/exercise.

Daily psychological stressors are not clearly sole causes of ulcers, but they can make symptoms of ulcers worse.

When an ulcer occurs because of infection, antibiotics and stomach-acid-blocking medicines will treat it.

Can taking too much aspirin give you an ulcer?

Dr. Liu: Yes, aspirin can cause ulcers, as can other nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medications and steroids.

Read: Tummy Troubles: Don’t Suffer in Silence with IBS

How long do ulcers typically last?

Dr. Liu: There are many causes of ulcers  and the vast majority of them can be initially evaluated and treated in noninvasive ways, such as blood/stool/breath testing and lab work.

If an ulcer is treatable with appropriate medications, then it may take about 2-3 months to heal.

how they are connected and what to do

If you have a coma in your throat and a stomach ulcer, you should pay attention to your diet and lifestyle. It is necessary to exclude spicy, fatty, smoked foods and alcohol, as well as to be more calm and relaxed. It is important not to postpone a visit to the doctor in order to receive timely treatment and prevent possible complications.

A lump in the throat is an unpleasant sensation that can occur for many reasons. However, it can also be associated with stomach ulcers, which are serious conditions in the gastrointestinal tract.

A stomach ulcer is a deep defect in the gastric mucosa that results in the formation of an ulcer. It can cause heavy bleeding, pain in the upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting.

A lump in the throat and a stomach ulcer may be associated, as the sensation of a lump in the throat may be caused by reflux of gastric juice into the esophagus. This may occur due to an increase in the acidity of the contents of the stomach, which is characteristic of stomach ulcers. If you experience a regular sensation of a lump in your throat, be sure to see your doctor to check your stomach and esophagus.

In this article, we will look at the main causes of a lump in the throat and stomach ulcers, and give advice on what to do if you encounter these problems.

What is a lump in the throat?

A lump in the throat is a feeling as if something is caught in the throat or as if a piece of food is stuck there and cannot be swallowed. This condition can be temporary and resolve on its own, or it can become chronic and cause an increase in the granularity of the mucous membrane of the throat.

This feeling can occur for various reasons: from mental stress to diseases of the endocrine glands and endocrine system, from respiratory diseases to traumatic injuries of the spine.

Sometimes a lump in the throat can be a symptom of a stomach ulcer, as the acid that is secreted in the wrong way in this disease enters the esophagus and throat, causing irritation and discomfort.

Related videos:

What is a stomach ulcer?

Gastric ulcer is a chronic disease associated with the formation of an ulcer in the stomach or duodenum. An ulcer is an injury to the lining of an organ that can cause pain and bleeding.

Ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, such as Helicobacter pylori infection, frequent use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), stress, upset stomach, and other medical problems.

Gastric ulcer symptoms include upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, appetite disturbances, and weight loss. Some people may not have obvious symptoms and only become aware of the disease through medical examinations.

Stomach ulcers are treated with medicines that reduce stomach acid and kill the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. It may also be necessary to adjust the diet and daily routine. In some cases, surgery is required.

Association between a lump in the throat and a stomach ulcer

When a person suffers from a lump in the throat, it may be due to dysfunction of the stomach. In most cases, a lump in the throat is due to reflux, when the contents of the stomach travel up the esophagus to the throat.

Gastric ulcer, in turn, is one of the main causes of reflux. This condition is characterized by the formation of an ulcer on the wall of the stomach, which can lead to a change in the form and function of this organ.

In the presence of a stomach ulcer, the esophagus may become more compressed, causing a feeling of a lump in the throat. This can be further exacerbated by stress and diet, which also affect the condition of the stomach.

• Symptoms associated with reflux and stomach ulcers:
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Feeling bitter after eating
• Stomach pain
• Chest discomfort 90 050
• Difficulty swallowing

To prevent a lump in the throat and stomach ulcers, it is necessary to monitor the diet, avoid spicy and fatty foods, alcohol and nicotine. It is also important to review your medical history and consult your doctor if you suspect you have a stomach ulcer or other gastrointestinal disease.

Causes of a lump in the throat

Psycho-emotional state : One of the most common causes of a lump in the throat are psychological factors such as excessive excitement, anxiety, stress, depression and other highly emotional conditions.

Cervical Spine Disorders : Pinched nerves in the cervical spine can cause a sensation of a lump in the throat. Also, the cause can be various diseases, such as osteochondrosis, scoliosis, etc.

Esophageal reflux : This is a condition in which stomach contents back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and pain in the throat and chest. As a result, there is a sensation of a coma in the throat.

Allergic reactions : some people may experience a lump in the throat when exposed to certain allergens such as dust, mold, plant pollen, etc.

Acute respiratory viral infection : this infection can cause swelling of the throat lining causing a feeling of coma.

Cancers : Sometimes a lump in the throat may be associated with a throat, esophageal or lung disease such as cancer, which requires immediate medical attention.

Causes of stomach ulcers

1. Helicobacter pylori

This bacterium is the main cause of stomach ulcers. It penetrates the lining of the stomach and causes chronic inflammation.

2. Use of certain drugs

Long-term use of certain drugs such as nextatin, aspirin, diclofenac and others may cause stomach ulcers.

3. Stress and nervous tension

Stress and anxiety can become the strongest provocateurs for the development of gastric ulcer. At the same time, acidity in the stomach increases sharply and the natural balance between acid and the protective factors of the gastric mucosa is disturbed …

4. Eating disorders

Improper diet, irregular meals, frequent snacking, eating spicy and fatty foods can provoke stomach ulcers.

1. Avoid excessive spicy and fatty foods
2. Divide your meals into 5-6 meals per day.
3. Do not chew gum

5. Heredity

If there has been a history of stomach ulcers in the family, sensitivity to the development of this disease can be inherited.

Symptoms of a lump in the throat

1. Sensation of a lump in the throat

The main symptom of a lump in the throat is the sensation of a lump or a foreign body that does not go away and interferes with normal swallowing. The sensation of a coma can be intensified by anxiety, stress, and also after eating certain foods.

2. Pain when swallowing

A coma in the throat may cause pain when swallowing, which is caused by irritation of the mucous membrane of the throat and esophagus. The pain can manifest as sharp and burning, or constant and pressing.

3. Bad taste in the mouth

A lump in the throat is often accompanied by an unpleasant taste in the mouth, which occurs due to the formation of putrefactive masses in the tonsils. You may also experience bad breath.

4. Difficulty breathing

If a lump in the throat is accompanied by swelling of the larynx or pressure on the airways, the patient may experience difficulty breathing. In severe cases, urgent medical attention is needed.

5. Cough and hoarseness

The appearance of cough and hoarseness may indicate the presence of a lump in the throat that irritates the airways. This manifestation is especially characteristic of an allergic coma in the throat.

6. Abdominal pain and heartburn

If a lump in the throat is associated with acid reflux disease, the patient may experience abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating, belching and other symptoms associated with indigestion.

Symptoms of gastric ulcer

1. Pain in the epigastric region (upper abdomen).

One of the main symptoms of a stomach ulcer is pain, which is localized in the epigastric region. The pain can be of different intensity and character: dull, oppressive, stabbing or burning.

2. Feeling of heaviness in the stomach, belching, heartburn.

With a stomach ulcer, there may be a feeling of heaviness and fullness in the stomach, belching with an acid taste, as well as a burning sensation and discomfort behind the sternum – heartburn.

3. Nervousness, irritability, loss of appetite.

Gastric ulcer can lead to disturbance of the digestive function of the stomach and intuition for food. This can lead to loss of appetite, nervousness and irritability.

4. Weight loss.

Patients with stomach ulcers may experience weight loss, which is associated with indigestion and decreased appetite.

5. Weakness, pale skin, anemia.

Anemia may be associated with bleeding from a stomach ulcer. With prolonged bleeding, signs of weakness, dizziness, pale skin and rapid fatigue may appear.

6. Acute bleeding from a stomach ulcer.

Acute bleeding from a stomach ulcer is a dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms are a sharp pain in the abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, pale skin, loss of consciousness.

Diagnosis of a lump in the throat and stomach ulcers

To diagnose a lump in the throat, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient. First of all, with the help of a gastroenterological examination, the presence of a stomach ulcer is determined. For this, fibrogastroduodenoscopy is performed, which allows to assess the condition of the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum.

It is also necessary to conduct a study of the function of the digestive system, for example, pH-metry or manometry. These methods allow you to determine the level of acidity of the stomach and the tension of the muscles of its walls.

To diagnose a lump in the throat, fluoroscopy can be used, in which the doctor evaluates the patency of the esophagus and larynx. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest and neck can also be prescribed, which gives a detailed idea of ​​the anatomical structure of the organs.

Specialists may also order allergy tests, since a lump in the throat is often the result of an allergic reaction of the body to one or more substances.

• Fibrogastroduodenoscopy
• PH-metry or manometry
• Fluoroscopy
• Computed tomography
• Allergy tests

In general, the diagnosis and treatment of a lump in the throat and stomach ulcers require a visit to a doctor and systematic examination of the body.

Treatment of a lump in the throat

The feeling of a lump in the throat can be caused by various factors – from banal fatigue and nervous tension to serious diseases. Therefore, before starting treatment, it is necessary to find out the cause of the appearance of a coma.

If the lump is caused by stress, then relaxation, meditation and breathing exercises can be a good way to eliminate it. Anti-anxiety medications may also be helpful, but should only be taken as directed by a doctor.

If the lump is caused by a disease of the respiratory or digestive organs, it is necessary to treat the underlying disease under medical supervision. In such cases, the treatment of a stone in the throat can be carried out with the help of drugs aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease. Antitussives can also be used to ease breathing and reduce coma symptoms.

In severe cases, when the coma is accompanied by weakness, dizziness and other symptoms, medical attention is needed. Doctors may prescribe procedures, such as nasopharyngeal irrigations or inhalations, as well as prescribe medications to treat the condition.

In any case, if a lump appears in the throat, it is necessary to consult a doctor to diagnose and treat the cause of the disease. Do not self-medicate, as improper treatment can worsen your health.

• Find out the cause of the coma.
• Stress relief: relaxation, meditation, breathing exercises, sedatives.
• Treatment of the underlying disease.
• Antitussives.
• Medical assistance: procedures, nasal lavage, inhalations, medicines.
• Seeing a doctor to diagnose and treat the cause of an illness.

Gastric ulcer treatment

Gastric ulcer treatment should only be prescribed by a doctor. It depends on the severity of the disease, the presence of complications and the individual characteristics of the patient. The basis of therapy is the following activities:

• Prescribing antibiotics – Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which are found in the stomach of most patients with stomach ulcers, must be destroyed. For this, special antibiotics are prescribed.
• Taking drugs that reduce the acidity of the stomach – digestion disorders are reduced, pain is reduced.
• Diet – Avoid spicy, fatty, acidic foods, alcohol, coffee, marinades and smoking. Pleasant and light eating is an important condition for a quick recovery of the body.
• Mode of work and rest — it is necessary to understand that a patient depends a lot on his own attitude towards his health. Regular rest, food, communication and doing things you love help you get through the treatment faster.

After the treatment, it is recommended to do follow-up examinations and follow the diet. The doctor may advise taking a course of medication to maintain the stomach and overall strengthening of the body.

Prevention of coma in the throat and stomach ulcers

A lump in the throat and stomach ulcers are unpleasant and common problems, but there are many ways to avoid them.

1. Drink enough water every day. Lack of fluid can lead to a decrease in acidity in the stomach, which can cause constriction and, as a result, a lump in the throat.

2. Eat a healthy diet. Limit fatty, spicy, and acidic foods, which can irritate the stomach and cause ulcers.

3. Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity can help control weight and improve digestive health.

4. Avoid stress and psychological overload. Stress can impair stomach function and cause a lump in the throat.

5. Do not abuse alcohol and nicotine. Both substances can impair digestion and increase the risk of stomach ulcers.

6. Take medications only as directed by your doctor. Some medications, such as aspirin, may increase the risk of stomach ulcers.

7. Correctly treat existing problems. If you have symptoms of a lump in your throat or stomach ulcers, contact your doctor for professional diagnosis and treatment.

When to see a doctor?

If you experience frequent gastrointestinal discomfort such as abdominal pain, heartburn or belching, you should see your doctor. These symptoms may be associated with various gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastritis, stomach ulcers, or inflammation of the esophagus.

In addition, if you experience prolonged nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite or weight loss, you may have serious health problems. These symptoms may indicate stomach cancer or other dangerous diseases.

If you have symptoms associated with a lump in your throat, such as a feeling of dryness, tightness or pressure in your throat, difficulty swallowing, or painful chewing of food, you should also see your doctor. These symptoms may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other diseases that can develop into extremely dangerous conditions.

In any case, if you develop new and unusual symptoms and/or symptoms become more severe, contact your doctor. No matter how severe or minor your symptoms seem, each of them can indicate a serious condition that should be brought to the immediate attention and treatment of medical professionals.

Conclusions

So, there is a direct connection between a lump in the throat and a stomach ulcer. Lump can occur as a result of digestive disorders, stress and other factors that can also lead to the development of stomach ulcers.

To prevent a coma in the throat and stomach ulcers, you need to monitor your food and emotional discipline. Eating regularly, chewing slowly and well, giving up bad habits, and regularly controlling stress levels will all be beneficial for the gastrointestinal tract.

If you have symptoms of a lump in your throat or stomach ulcers, you should contact your doctor immediately. Treatment can be long, but early detection and initiation of therapy are important factors for a successful cure.

Also, be aware that self-medication and neglect of symptoms can lead to serious consequences such as internal bleeding, ulcerative perforations, and other complications.

• Summing up, it is worth highlighting the following points:
• A lump in the throat and a stomach ulcer have common causes of development;
• For prevention, you need to monitor your lifestyle, eat right and control stress levels;
• If symptoms occur, seek medical attention for treatment;
• Self-medication and ignoring symptoms can lead to serious complications.

Q&A:

How are a lump in the throat and a stomach ulcer connected?

These symptoms may be related, as the acid released from stomach ulcers can cause irritation and tingling in the throat, sometimes even to the point of a lump.

What other symptoms may accompany a throat and stomach ulcer?

Other symptoms may include heartburn, nausea, vomiting, stomach and side pain, general weakness, loss of appetite, fatigue and weight loss.

What can cause a lump in the throat?

A lump in the throat can be caused by many things, including stress, anxiety, depression, overwork, allergen reactions, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) and other throat conditions.

What medicines can be taken for stomach ulcers?

Anti-inflammatory drugs, proton pump inhibitors, antacids, and antibacterial drugs to treat Helicobacter pylori infection may be given to treat stomach ulcers.

What can be done to get rid of a lump in the throat?

To relieve a lump in the throat, you can: drink a sip of water, take a deep breath, do relaxation exercises, use meditation therapy, do without alcohol and tobacco.

Can stomach ulcers be avoided?

Yes, you can. In order to avoid stomach ulcers, it is recommended to avoid spicy, fried and smoked foods, as well as alcohol and tobacco, constantly monitor the diet and rest, reduce stress and anxiety.

When should I see a doctor if I have symptoms of a lump in my throat and stomach ulcers?

If the symptoms interfere with daily life and do not disappear after applying the recommendations mentioned above, a doctor should be consulted. Also, if there is bleeding from the stomach or feces, medical attention should be sought urgently.

Duodenal ulcer – symptoms, signs, treatment, diet and prevention at the MEDSI Clinic

The duodenum is part of the small intestine, located just behind the pylorus. This organ is responsible for the process of digestion of food in the gastrointestinal tract. To date, peptic ulcer remains the most dangerous disease of the duodenum. In the acute stage, the ulcer is accompanied by severe bleeding and aching pain in the upper abdomen. If timely treatment of the duodenum is not started, this can lead to death. Let us consider in more detail the causes of duodenal ulcers, the symptoms of this disease, as well as modern methods of diagnosis and treatment, which have convincingly proven their effectiveness.

What is a duodenal ulcer?

A duodenal ulcer is a disease that affects the mucous membrane with further scar formation. The frequency of occurrence of inflammatory processes is not directly related to the gender or age of the person. Statistics show that men and women are equally affected by peptic ulcer, although people who regularly violate the basic rules of nutrition are at particular risk. This disease proceeds slowly, so the stages of exacerbation may alternate with periods of remission. In moments of remission, a person feels much better, but then the deceptive calm is suddenly replaced by severe pain. Therefore, in no case should you stop treatment for gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Causes of duodenal ulcers

Statistics show that the main cause of duodenal ulcers is the spiral bacterium Helicobacter pylori (lat. Helicobacter Pylori). This bacterium is able to exist for a long time in adverse conditions, actively multiplying and gradually damaging the mucous membranes.

In addition, the following causes lead to peptic ulcer:

• Mucosal damage. As a rule, this occurs due to the intake of gastric juice with an increased concentration of acid
• Inflammatory process. Very often, ulcers are caused by pathogenic bacteria that can infect the stomach and duodenum
• Nervous tension. As a result of stress, vascular spasms occur, due to which blood circulation and nutrition of the cells of the duodenal mucosa are disturbed
• Hereditary predisposition. Doctors note that the predisposition to duodenal ulcer is inherited
• Taking medicines. In some cases, the cause of the ulcer is the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and glucocorticosteroids, which contribute to the suppression of the protective factors of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract

It should be noted separately that there are several dangerous factors that contribute to the occurrence of this disease. For example, infection with a spiral bacterium usually occurs through contact with a sick person or along with contaminated food or water. In addition, do not forget about the regular abuse of spicy and coarse foods, as well as alcoholic beverages. This negatively affects the production of intestinal mucosal substances and often causes a violation of its motility. Sometimes treatment of the stomach and duodenum may be required after food poisoning.

Symptoms of duodenal ulcer

During an exacerbation of peptic ulcer, the patient may experience severe pain below the sternum or on the right side just above the navel. Most often, such pain is especially pronounced on an empty stomach. After eating, they may subside. This is due to an increase in the concentration of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Very often, many patients feel unpleasant heartburn, as well as moderate and dull pain, which usually appears 2-3 hours after eating.

In addition, the symptoms of a duodenal ulcer include:

• Nausea and vomiting. Patients suffering from this disease most often experience nausea not constantly, but only after eating
• Decreased appetite. Many patients report that they have no appetite at all. Rapid weight loss may result

It is worth noting that in the case when a person does not treat stomach and duodenal ulcers, he becomes too nervous and irritable. Some patients complain of a decrease in vitality and a lack of desire for any activity.

Frequency of exacerbations and types of duodenal ulcers

Peptic ulcer of the duodenum differs in that periods of exacerbation are replaced by intervals of remission. When remission occurs, the patient can feel completely healthy. There is a feeling that the disease has receded, so many people begin to violate the diet and medical recommendations. But after that, an exacerbation occurs, which can last from several days to one and a half or two months. Most often, exacerbation is observed in the spring and autumn periods.

Complications of duodenal ulcer

Complications that can occur with duodenal ulcer:

• Formation of a through hole in the wall of the duodenum. This is an emergency condition when the patient feels sudden and severe pain. Due to the entry of hydrochloric acid and bile into the free abdominal cavity, peritonitis occurs, which threatens the life of the patient and requires urgent medical attention
• Bleeding from an ulcer. Due to the increase in the size of the ulcer, the vessel wall of the duodenum is exposed. As a result, bleeding occurs. The patient has a drop in blood pressure and severe weakness. Treatment of bleeding is carried out only in a surgical hospital
• Difficulty in passing food from the stomach to the intestines. This complication occurs due to deformation or narrowing of the place where the transition of the stomach into the duodenum occurs. This leads to a delay of part of the food in the stomach, so patients complain of severe pain in the abdomen. With such complaints, you should immediately consult a doctor, as the patient needs urgent treatment
• Penetration of an ulcer into other internal organs. If the ulcer passes to the pancreas, large intestine or liver, the pain increases sharply and becomes permanent. In this case, urgent treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers with surgical intervention is required

Diagnosis of duodenal ulcer

As part of the diagnosis of this disease, a whole range of procedures is carried out that allow you to get the most accurate picture of the state of the duodenum and the nature of the course of the disease. First of all, the doctor conducts an endoscopic examination, examining the walls of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract using a special gastroscope instrument inserted into the stomach through the mouth and esophagus.

After that, laboratory tests are carried out:

• General blood and urine tests
• Fecal analysis
• Biochemical blood test
• Analysis of gastric juice

To identify the focus of the pathology, a radiation study of the upper parts of the digestive tract is used, carried out with the use of contrast. If a deviation from the norm is recorded on the radiographs, an endoscopic examination with the possibility of taking a biopsy is necessary. To detect the presence of the spiral-shaped bacterium Helicobacter pylori, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for antibodies and a breath test are performed, which allows you to detect waste products of the bacterium in the air exhaled by the patient.

Treatment of duodenal ulcer

Treatment of duodenal ulcers is performed strictly according to the doctor’s prescription. Any attempts at self-treatment lead to a deterioration in the condition and a sharp progression of the disease. As a rule, the course of treatment includes the use of medications that can not only reduce the manifestations of the disease, but also almost completely eliminate the possible causes of peptic ulcer. The use of gastric acid neutralizers, mucosal protectors and other drugs makes it possible to destroy Helicobacter pylori bacteria, prevent the possible development of complications, and also restore the duodenal mucosa. Physiotherapy is used to activate the blood supply to the abdominal organs and reduce pain. In addition, this method of treatment has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps to establish the secretory function of the entire digestive system. The choice of a specific method is made by the attending physician based on the data obtained during the diagnosis of the patient.

Duodenal ulcer prevention

In order to prevent the patient is required to follow a certain diet. To do this, you need to make sure that the food is complete and balanced. It is best to eat foods that are high in fiber. Preference should be given to milk and vegetable soups, dishes with boiled meat and fish of low-fat varieties, as well as cereals. Please note that food should be taken approximately 5-6 times a day in small portions. In this case, you need to abandon fatty, spicy and fried foods, as it helps to increase the concentration of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. This is due to the fact that these products strongly stimulate gastric secretion, leading to excessive production of hydrochloric acid, which quickly destroys the cells of the duodenal mucosa. In addition to dieting, patients need to avoid stressful situations and nervous strain.

Benefits of contacting MEDSI

MEDSI Clinical and Diagnostic Center provides professional treatment for duodenal ulcers using the latest methods that guarantee a positive result. If a person is interested in the treatment of the duodenum (symptoms, complications, diagnosis, etc. ), they can undergo a quick and accurate examination with us, which allows them to assess the state of the gastrointestinal tract and prescribe the most effective course of treatment.

Key benefits of duodenal ulcer treatment in our medical center:

• High level of doctors’ training. Treatment of the duodenum (ulcer and other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract) is carried out by qualified specialists. They have quite a lot of experience in this area
• Individual treatment plan. Every person who is concerned about a duodenal ulcer (symptoms and treatment) can count on an attentive attitude and a high level of service from all the staff of our medical center
• Adequate cost of treatment. Even in the conditions of the economic crisis, we continue to keep the cost of treatment at an optimal level, quite affordable for many people who want to get rid of peptic ulcer forever

In order to undergo treatment for gastric and duodenal ulcers or get additional information about our medical center, just call +7 (495) 152-55-46.