Peptic ulcer disease – is the presence of peptic ulcers, i.e. cavities in the gastric mucosa. Its typical symptoms are burning pain in the abdomen after a meal, heartburn, indigestion, vomiting, nausea, constipation, weight loss, fatigue and even internal bleeding.
It is estimated that in our country about 10% of the population has gastric ulcers. There are many popular opinions about this common disease in the popular consciousness. However, not all of them are confirmed in reality. So check which ones are real!
With 1.Stomach ulcers affect men more often than women.
Falsehood. Men are more than twice as likely to suffer from duodenal ulcers as women. There was no gender difference among patients with gastric ulceration.
With 2.Ulcers are most severe in the spring and fall.
Truth. In the so-called It is during the transitional seasons, such as spring and autumn, that we are most vulnerable and least resistant. In addition, it is a period of multiplication and special activity of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which causes ulcers.
With 3.The main culprit is stress.
Falsehood. For years, it was believed that an overly stressful lifestyle was the cardinal cause of gastric ulceration. Today, it is known that Helicobacter pylori is responsible for about 80% of cases.
With 4.Bacteria aren’t the only way to get ulcers.
Truth. Helicobacter pylori is the most common but not the only cause of gastric ulcers. The disease can also be caused by: long-term use of anti-inflammatory, analgesic or antipyretic drugs, smoking, drinking large amounts of alcohol, chronic stress, improper diet.
With 5.Everyone infected with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori is doomed to peptic ulcer disease.
Falsehood. Being a carrier of the bacteria does not mean that the disease is inevitable. It is shown that only 10% of those infected with the bacterium are people with ulcers. The rest, in the vast majority, struggle with gastritis, but this disease can be asymptomatic.
With 6.Treatment of ulcers does not require surgery.
Truth. But only for ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori. Such ulcers can be cured with antibiotic therapy in combination with appropriate treatment with drugs that eliminate the secretion of hydrochloric acid.
With 7.There is no need for a gastroscopy.
Truth. Gastroscopy is essential to correctly diagnose if symptoms are related to stomach ulcers. In this way, the condition of the mucosa in the digestive tract is checked.
With 8.Ulcers cause anemia.
Truth. Untreated ulcers can lead to anemia because damaged mucosa often bleeds, and this causes anemia and iron deficiency.
With 9.A proper diet speeds up the healing process.
Falsehood. Of course, following a diet is essential during treatment, but there is no evidence that eating any food has an effect on how quickly ulcers heal.
With 10.Ulcers can be cured with home remedies.
Falsehood. Absolutely impossible! You can only alleviate the symptoms of the disease, but the help of an experienced doctor and appropriate therapy is essential