Gastric Ulcer

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Diseases and Disorders of the Digestive System.
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Tissues and Organs of the
Digestive System.

A Gastric Ulcer is an ulcer in the stomach.

Causes of gastric ulcers may include:

The action of acid, pepsin, and bile on the lining of the stomach (mucosa). However, the output of stomach acid is not usually increased.
Taking NSAIDs (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs) or corticosteroids may be pre-disposing factors.
helicobacter pylori is often present.

Symptoms & Effects of gastric ulcers may include:

Symptoms may include vomiting and pain in the upper abdomen soon after eating.
Complications may include bleeding, perforation and obstruction due to scarring.

Medical Tests and Treatments for gastric ulcers may involve:

Examination using a gastroscope to confirm the diagnosis of a gastric ulcer, as opposed to other conditions such as stomach cancer (see also news about stomach cancer).
Use of antacids to relieve symptoms and/or
Anti-secretory drugs to heal the ulcer(s).
Surgery may be recommended if the ulcer fails to heal following initial treatment.

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