Stomach Pain: Do Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Related To Stomach Ulcers?

Overview:

Stomach pain can make it hard to eat. And thus practice life naturally. In this article, we will talk about everything related to stomach ulcers.

What is an ulcer?

It is a type of peptic ulcer disease that affects the stomach and small intestine, and it is a painful sore that forms in the lining of the stomach, and this is because the mucus loses its effectiveness. (1)

What are the causes of stomach ulcers?

1- In the case of infection with Helicobacter pylori (stomach germ)

Due to the imbalance between harmful factors. Such as Helicobacter pylori, and on the other hand, the defense of the mucous membrane of the stomach.

It indicates that the mechanism of protection of the part of the mucous membrane in the stomach is the main reason for the development of stomach ulcers. (1)

2- Excessive use of certain medications over a long period.

One of the causes of stomach ulcers is the excessive intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin.

These are medicines whose role is to treat inflammation and pain, but they harm the vital substances whose role is to protect the mucous membrane of the stomach.

Taking it excessively, especially among the elderly, increases the percentage of people with stomach ulcers, and complications occur, including severe bleeding. (1)

What are the symptoms of a stomach ulcer?

Symptoms differ according to the severity of the ulcer. The most common and well-known symptoms are

the feeling of burning and pain in the middle of the abdomen between the chest and the navel, and pain usually increases when the stomach is empty, and the pain stays for several minutes, possibly several hours.

Other symptoms of stomach ulcers include:

Vomiting and nausea

Stomach pain

Lost in weight

Swelling

Heartburn

The stool color will be dark

Any time you feel these symptoms, you must consult a specialist doctor to prevent any complications. (2)

Complications:

It is uncommon for stomach ulcer complications to occur, but in a small percentage, it may be life-threatening.

Complications as:

Bleeding at the ulcer site
An ulcer can obstruct the movement of food through the digestive system, which can cause an intestinal obstruction.
Perforation of the stomach (2)

Treatment:

1- For ulcers caused by bacteria:

The purpose of treatment is to kill the bacteria in the body.
Protect the lining of the stomach and intestines.
It reduces the acid in the stomach.

This is through the triple treatment, in which the patient has to take two antibiotics and one to stop the acids for one to two weeks.

2- For ulcers caused by taking anti-inflammatory drugs:

Treatment is done by stopping this drug and taking drugs to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, such as antacids or H2 to reduce stomach acids.

3- In an emergency

Ulcers may cause bleeding, and it may require a blood transfusion, especially if the bleeding is severe.

Some rare cases require surgical intervention to treat bleeding or perforated stomach ulcers. (3)

Prevention:

Wash hands regularly with soap and water to prevent infections, and make sure that food and water are clean for those infected through them.

Be careful to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, because taking them regularly increases the risk of stomach ulcers. For example, take medications during meals.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking the medication because combining these together increases the risk of stomach disorders.