“What causes gastric ulcer?”

Gastric ulcers are serious and of great concern. Gastric ulcer only develops when there is breakdown of the inner stomach protective barrier. The stomach must have a completely intact barrier that protects against the strong gastric acid that is secreted within the stomach and is able to burn cell membranes and cellular connections. Mucus is a component of the protective barrier. Any disruption will lead to erosion and ulceration, which denotes burning by the acids and corrosion. Ulcers may be shallow and superficial. Ulcers may be deep and penetrating. Ulcers may erode blood vessels with bleeding. Ulcers may penetrate very deep through the stomach wall. Prevention is essential. Ulcers can evolve from aspirin, from other NSAID MEDICATIONS, from alcohol, from local infection of bacteria like Helicobacter pylori, or from other etiologies such as cancer. Discovering root basic causation is essential for basic corrective action. Preventive habits are essential. Avoiding compounding habits too is essential, like avoiding alcohol and aspirin and or NSAID MEDICATIONS together. Dietary habits that do not promote high acid secretion are important: strong spices, large meat intakes, overeating all stimulate acid secretions. And ulcers reoccur. So, be informed and take care to get help.

Most gastric ulcers are caused by H pylori infection or use of aspirin or ibuprofen-type medicines. Rarely, cancer may cause an ulcer. Most cases are not serious. Check for the H pylori infection and use antacid pills to heal the ulcer. Follow up with your GI doctor.

Ulcers can be a sign of too much acid production in the stomach or not enough protection in the lining of the stomach. Untreated, ulcers can enlarge and lead to worse symptoms like pain. Ulcers can occasionally cause severe bleeding (hemorrhage) or perforate (rupture), both of which require emergency procedures such as an endoscopy or surgery to repair. There may be a higher incidence of cancer associated with ulcers as well.

Treatment can include lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation and avoiding acidic foods (coffee, alcohol) as well as medications (such as H2-blockers and proton pump inhibitors). 20-30 years ago, surgery for ulcers was much more common. The medications today are extremely effective and rarely is surgery ever offered for ulcer disease unless in the face of an emergency.

Yes, mainly stress and bad diet.