Gastrointestinal ulcer

Gastrointestinal ulcer is a chronic disease in which a defect (ulcer) forms on the mucous membrane of the stomach or duodenum. This occurs when the protective mechanisms of the mucosa fail to cope with the effects of acid and digestive enzymes.

The disease can manifest in waves, with periods of exacerbation and remission.

Causes of Ulcer Formation

• Helicobacter pylori infection – destroys the mucosa and causes inflammation;
• use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, ibuprofen);
• increased acidity of gastric juice;
• stress, irregular eating, overeating;
• abuse of coffee, alcohol, spicy foods;
• deficiency of zinc and vitamins A, C, which are involved in mucosal healing.

Main Symptoms

• pain in the upper abdomen (worsens on an empty stomach, decreases after eating);
• heartburn, sour belching;
• nausea, heaviness after eating;
• flatulence, stool disturbances;
• in severe cases – vomiting with blood or black stool (a sign of bleeding).

Diet and Lifestyle with Ulcer

• eat small portions 5-6 times a day;
• avoid spicy, sour, fried, coarse foods;
• exclude alcohol, coffee, carbonated drinks;
• prefer mucous porridge, pureed soups, stewed vegetables, soft-boiled eggs;
• consume collagen-rich broths, jelly, fish;
• include sources of zinc, vitamins A, C, and B group in the diet;
• avoid stress and do not smoke.

Possible Complications

• bleeding from the ulcer;
• perforation (perforation of the stomach or intestinal wall);
• scarring deformations and narrowing of the intestinal lumen;
• transition of the ulcerative process to chronic gastritis.

Modern treatment of peptic ulcer disease includes the eradication of Helicobacter pylori, reduction of gastric acidity, and restoration of the mucosa through diet and nutritional support. Adhering to a dietary regimen and avoiding irritating factors can achieve stable remission and prevent complications.