Stomach Ulcer is one of the common types of ulcer. It begins in the upper middle part of the abdomen above the belly button and below the breast bone.
Normally, the stomach produces a strong acid to help in food digestion and protection against microbes. In order to protect the issues of the body from this acid, it also secrets a thick layer of mucus and if the mucus layer is worn away, the acid can damage the stomach tissue which causes ulcer.
The most common sign of ulcer is the stomach pain.
Stomach ulcer can be recurrent or lost in few hours.
It usually happens when the stomach is empty.
Common Symptoms of stomach Ulcer
- Indigestion
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Sensation in the stomach
- Feeling of bloating
Severe symptoms include:
- Vomiting blood that may have red or black colour
- Difficult breathing
- Change of appetite
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Just like other diseases, stomach Ulcer has risk factors, the are:
- Smoking- people who smoke are at risk of having stomach Ulcer.
- Alcohol intake- especially when much alcohol has been taken without food.
- Excess stress
- Much intake of spicy foods
- Genetics
- People with illness such as kidney or liver are at risk of having stomach Ulcer.
People who suffer from stomach ulcer should eat more of:
- Fibre- It reduces the risk of developing stomach ulcer.
- Vitamin C
- Zinc- It is important for maintaining a healthy immune system and healing wounds. Zinc can be gotten from foods such as: Oyster, Spinach and beef.
- Fruits and vegetables.
When you start experiencing indigestion or sensation in the stomach which are the common symptoms, a doctor should be seen to carry out tests in order to be sure of the diagnosis because it stomach Ulcer bis left to persist, it can lead to hole in the stomach and cause internal bleeding.
