The ulcer in the stomach is formed when alterations of the defense mechanisms that protect the walls of the stomach or the duodenum against the gastric acid present there occur, and in general this is a complication or aggravation of a previous existent gastritis.
The amount of gastric juice produced does not determine whether or not there is a risk of ulcer formation, since people with abundant secretion may never develop ulcers while others with low hydrochloric acid secretion may develop an ulcer.
Major causes of stomach ulcer
The most common causes of gastric ulcer development are:
- Medications : Aspirin, Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory norsteroids cause erosions and gastric ulcers especially in the elderly. They tend to heal when the medicine is stopped.
- Bacteria H. Pylori : Present in the stomach of the vast majority of people who develop peptic ulcer, it can interfere with the normal defenses against gastric acid and produce a toxin that contributes to the formation of ulcers.
- Stress : It increases the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and this can generate an ulcer.
- Genetic change : Individuals who have cases of gastritis and ulcer in the family are more likely to develop this disease.
- Poor feed : Processed and very fatty foods, refrigerant, acidic or spicy foods take longer to digest and can promote ulcer formation.
- Excess alcohol : When the alcohol reaches the stomach it changes the pH of the region and causes the body to produce more hydrochloric acid, which contributes to the formation of the ulcer.
- Smoking : Studies suggest that cigarette smoking increases the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, favoring the ulcer.
Thus, eliminating all these factors is an important part of the treatment, so that it has the expected effect.
How to treat stomach ulcer
Treatment for gastric ulcer can be done by taking anti-acid medications and antibiotics when Helicobacter pylori bacteria is present. One of the most commonly prescribed antacids in Brazil is Ranitidine, another is Omeprazole. These should be taken with medical advice. Antacids act in the body by reducing the production of gastric juice and serve to control the disease and decrease symptoms.
As a form of natural treatment for ulcer it is indicated:
- Take daily pure juice from fasting potatoes as it is an excellent natural anti-acid that do not have contraindications;
- Adopt a lighter and healthier diet, giving preference to vegetables, cooked fruits and vegetables and lean meats cooked or grilled;
- Avoid stress, which favors ulcer;
- Practice regular exercise.
With these measures it is possible to cure the ulcer faster and end up permanently with stomach pain.
