Generally, ulcers are types of sores that develop in the digestive tract. The condition can occur in various places within the gastrointestinal system such as the intestines and stomach. There are also many people who experience multiple ulcers in their stomachs. A few times, ulcers can disappear on their own, and you do not have to seek medical help. But in many cases, you have to visit the gastroenterologist in order to prevent serious complications.

Types of Ulcers

There are various types of ulcers found in the human body. The following are venous ulcers, mouth ulcers, arterial ulcers and genital ulcers. But here, we have discussed only digestive ulcers or peptic ulcers. Generally, this type of ulcer occurs when the mucus layer is reduced and cannot protect the stomach from digestive juices anymore. As a result, the digestive acids eat away the tissues and cause an ulcer.

Symptoms

There are various symptoms that are associated with stomach ulcers. How severe the symptom depends upon the severity of the ulcer. You may experience a burning sensation in the middle of your abdomen. The pain can last for a few minutes to several hours. Other symptoms are:

• Weight loss

• No appetite

• dull pain in the stomach

• feeling easily full

• burping

• Nausea

• Heartburn

• dark, tarry stools

Types of Peptic Ulcers

1. Esophageal ulcers - This type of ulcer occurs within the esophagus.

2. Gastric ulcers - It occurs within the lining of the stomach

3. Duodenal ulcers - It occurs within the small intestines.

The Reason behind the Peptic Ulcer

When the lining of the GI tract is damaged due to some reason, it leads to Peptic Ulcer. But mainly people experience ulcers if they take certain medications on a regular basis. In that case, they should contact the gastroenterologist immediately.

Treatment

Whenever it comes to treating your ulcer, the specialist will diagnose you first. The expert will review your medical history and the medications you are currently taking. He or she may recommend doing a breath, blood or stool test. There are also other tests available such as barium swallow, endoscopy and endoscopic biopsy.

What to Do Next?

Nowadays, many people are suffering from ulcers due to their eating habits and other reasons. If you are one of them, then contact Digestive Disease Specialists, INC in Edmond, OK.

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.