Ulcer – causes, types, treatment. Where do ulcers come from?

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Body ulcers are unsightly lesions on the surface of the skin, mucosa or cornea, heal very slowly and recur frequently. They can take many forms and appear anywhere on the body, from the lining of the stomach to the outer layer of the skin. Some cases of ulcers resolve on their own, but others require treatment to prevent serious complications. Most often, this problem affects people with reduced immunity.

Ulcer – characteristics

An ulcer is a defect in the skin or mucosa that is accompanied by tissue breakdown. Ulcers can cause the complete loss of the epidermis, and often parts of the dermis, and even subcutaneous fat. Ulcers are most common on the skin of the lower extremities and in the digestive tract. An ulcer that appears on the skin is often seen as inflamed with an area of ​​reddened skin. Skin ulceration is often seen when exposed to heat or cold, irritation, or problems with blood circulation.

Ulcers can also be caused by immobility, which puts pressure on the tissues for a long time. This pressure on the blood circulation becomes ulcerated skin, commonly known as pressure ulcers. It should also be added that ulcers often become infected and pus is formed.

Ulcer – types

There are several types of ulcers, distinguished depending on their location and the cause of the ulcer appearance.

Types of ulcers – peptic ulcers

Peptic ulcers are sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach, the top of the small intestine, or the esophagus. They are formed when digestive juices damage the walls of the stomach or intestines. Peptic ulcers are most often caused by inflammation following infection with bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and long-term use of painkillers.

There are three types of peptic ulcer:

1. stomach ulcers;
2. esophageal ulcers;
3. duodenal ulcers.

The most common symptom of this condition is burning pain. Other symptoms may include:

1. flatulence or a feeling of fullness;
2. belching;
3. heartburn;
4. nausea;
5. vomiting;
6. unexplained weight loss;
7. pain in the chest.

Treatment depends on the cause of the ulcer. If we are infected with H. pylori bacteria, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to kill harmful bacteria. If your ulcers are caused by long-term use of painkillers or medications, your doctor may prescribe medications that reduce stomach acid or protect your stomach to prevent acid damage.

For ulcers related to the digestive system, we recommend the regular use of Na ulcer – herbal tea from the Herbapol brand in Krakow. Also try FOR SOILS – a dietary supplement available in a package containing 30 tablets. Kale has a positive effect on peptic ulcers. YANGO kale extract is available on Medonet Market in a package containing 90 capsules.

See also: Stomach and duodenal ulcers – symptoms, diet, treatment

Types of ulcers – varicose ulcers

Varicose ulcers – the most common type of leg ulcer – are open sores that often form on the leg, below the knee, and on the inside of the ankle. They usually develop as a result of damage to the veins caused by insufficient blood flow back to the heart.

In some cases, varicose ulcers cause little or no pain, unless they are infected. Other cases of this condition can be very painful.

Other symptoms that may occur include:

1. inflammation;
2. edema;
3. itchy skin;
4. strupy.

It can take months for varicose ulcers to fully heal. In rare cases, they may never heal. Treatment focuses on improving blood flow to the affected area. Antibiotics can help prevent infection and relieve symptoms, but are not enough to heal varicose ulcers. In addition to medications, your doctor may recommend surgery or compression therapy to increase blood flow.

To treat ulcers, use L-Mesitran Zinc Honey Ointment, which is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.

See also: What is a Martorelli ulcer?

Types of ulcers – arterial ulcers

Arterial (ischemic) ulcers are open wounds that develop mainly on the outside of the ankle, feet, toes, and heels. Arterial ulcers develop as a result of damage to the arteries due to a lack of blood supply to the tissues. These forms of ulcers can take months to heal and require appropriate treatment to prevent infection and further complications.

Arterial ulcers are accompanied by a number of symptoms, including:

1. red, yellow or black wounds;
2. hairless skin;
3. from nog;
4. no bleeding;
5. the affected area is cool to the touch thanks to minimal blood circulation.

Treatment of arterial ulcers depends on the underlying cause. Basic treatment includes restoring blood circulation in the affected area. Although antibiotics can help relieve symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery to increase blood flow to tissues and organs. In more severe circumstances, your doctor may recommend amputation.

See also: They were at risk of amputation, and thanks to the reconstruction, the bones were saved. Orthopedic miracle?

Types of ulcers – mouth ulcers

Mouth ulcers are small sores or lesions that develop in the mouth or the base of the gums. They are commonly known as canker sores.

These ulcers can be caused by:

1. biting the inside of the cheek;
2. food allergies;
3. brushing your teeth too hard;
4. hormonal changes;
5. vitamin deficiencies;
6. bacterial infections;
7. diseases.

Mouth ulcers are common and often resolve within two weeks. They can cause discomfort, but should not cause any significant pain. If the mouth ulcer is very painful, or does not go away within two weeks, it is recommended that you seek medical attention immediately.

For ulcers, it is worth using Ecological White Cabbage Juice, which you can buy at Medonet Market.

Minor mouth ulcers look like small, round sores that won’t leave a scar. In more severe cases, they can develop into larger and deeper wounds. Other serious symptoms associated with this type of ulcer can include:

1. unusually slow healing (lasting more than three weeks);
2. ulcers that extend to the lips;
3. eating or drinking problems;
4. fever;
5. diarrhea.

Mouth ulcers often resolve on their own without treatment. If the ulcers become painful, your doctor or dentist may prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash or ointment to reduce any discomfort.

See also: What is chronic ulcerative stomatitis?

Types of ulcers – genital ulcers

Genital ulcers are ulcers that develop on areas of the genital organs, including the penis, vagina, anus, or surrounding area. They are usually caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but genital ulcers can also be caused by trauma, inflammatory diseases, or allergic reactions to skin care products. In addition to the ulcers themselves, symptoms that may accompany genital ulcers include:

1. rash or bumps in the affected area;
2. pain or itching;
3. swelling of the glands in the groin area;
4. fever.

As with any ulcer, treatment depends on the cause of the disease. In some cases, the wounds will go away by themselves. If a sexually transmitted disease is diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications, antibiotics, or an ointment. If you believe you have been exposed to STIs, consult your doctor immediately.

See also: Genital herpes – how do we get infected? Can you treat genital herpes at home?

Types of ulcers – corneal ulcers

Ulcers appear on the cornea, which is the surface of our eye. They can cause redness and pain, as well as the sensation that something is stuck in our eye.

Typically, a corneal ulcer is caused by an infection. It can also occur due to dry eye syndrome, damage to the cornea, or eyelid problems which can cause the cornea to dry out and form ulcers.

Be aware that they can cause serious vision problems, including blindness. If we think you have it, it’s best to get treatment right away.

See also: Eye diseases

Types of ulcers – pressure ulcers

Pressure ulcers, commonly known as pressure ulcers, initially look like reddened skin, but over time can develop into deep, open wounds.

Pressure ulcers occur when prolonged pressure on the skin leads to problems with blood flow. We are more likely to get pressure ulcers if we have a medical condition that makes it difficult for us to move and we are forced to lie or sit most of the time. An example is an operation that requires long bed rest.

Pressure ulcers can cause:

1. bone and joint infections;
2. cancer in the upper layers of the skin;
3. cellulitis, a painful skin and soft tissue infection;
4. carnivorous bacteria (necrotizing fasciitis), life-threatening infection;
5. Sepsis, a life-threatening condition in which bacteria enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body.

Appropriate dressings are recommended for external ulcers. We recommend, for example, Suprasorb C collagen dressing, which supports collagen production, accelerating wound healing, Suprasorb P sensitive sacrum silicone foam dressing, which is characterized by high absorbency and at the same time delicacy, or Suprasorb P sensitive border solid silicone foam dressing for wounds with large exudate.

See also: Skin cancer – symptoms, types, prevention

Ulcer – treatment

Skin ulcers can take a long time to heal. Treatment is usually aimed at avoiding infection of the ulcer, removing excess secretion, maintaining a moist wound environment, controlling swelling, and relieving pain from nerve and tissue damage.

Topical antibiotics are usually used to prevent the ulcer from becoming infected, and a wound or ulcer is usually kept away from the dead tissue by surgical debridement.

Commonly as part of treatment, patients are advised to change their lifestyle as well as change their diet if possible. Improving circulation is important in treating skin ulcers, so patients are usually advised to exercise, quit smoking, and lose weight.

In recent years, progress has been made in accelerating the healing of chronic wounds and ulcers. Chronic wounds produce less growth hormones than necessary for tissue healing, and healing can be accelerated by replacing or stimulating growth factors, while controlling the formation of other substances that work against them.

Leg ulcers can be prevented by using compression stockings to prevent blood pooling and reverse flow. It is worth adding that it is likely that a person who had skin ulcers will have them again; wearing compression stockings daily for at least 5 years after the skin ulcer has healed can help prevent recurrence.

There is limited evidence that negative pressure therapy may be effective in reducing the healing time of leg ulcers.

See also: Reasons for weight loss and weight deficiency

Ulcer – home remedies

Conventional ulcer treatments tend to rely on medications that can cause negative side effects such as headaches and diarrhea. For this reason, interest in alternative treatments is growing steadily and is being fueled by both doctors and people with ulcers. Here are some natural remedies for ulcers.

Ulcers and flavonoids

Research by the Federal University of Paraíba in Brazil suggests that flavonoids may be an effective adjunct treatment for stomach ulcers.

Flavonoids are compounds found naturally in many fruits and vegetables. Foods and drinks rich in flavonoids include:

1. soy;
2. legumes;
3. red grapes;
4. kale;
5. broccoli;
6. apples;
7. berries;
8. teas (especially green tea).

These foods can also help your body fight H. pylori bacteria. The flavonoids protect the stomach lining and may allow ulcers to heal.

According to the Linus Pauling Institute, there are no side effects of consuming flavonoids in the amounts found in a typical diet, but higher amounts of flavonoids can interfere with blood clotting. You can add flavonoids to your diet, also taking them in the form of supplements.

Various types of herbs can be used in the prevention and treatment of stomach ulcers and other digestive problems, e.g. bergamot, chamomile, lemon balm or thyme. You will find all these plants in the organic herbal tea Idyllic aromas, which you can buy today at Medonet Market. St. John’s wort can also be used for ulcers, as it has a soothing and astringent effect.

See also: Blood coagulation disorders

Ulcers and licorice

Licorice is a plant native to Asia and the Mediterranean region. Some studies report that licorice root may have anti-ulcer and anti-ulcer properties.

For example, licorice can stimulate the stomach and intestines to produce more mucus, which helps to protect the stomach lining. The extra mucus can also speed up the healing process and reduce the pain associated with the ulcer. Scientists also report that some compounds found in licorice can prevent the growth of H. pylori bacteria. However, research is generally based on the use of these compounds in supplement form. Therefore, it is unclear how much dried licorice root someone would need to consume to experience the same beneficial effects.

Dried licorice root should not be confused with sweets or licorice-flavored candies. Licorice candies are unlikely to do the same, and are generally very high in sugar. Be aware that licorice can also interfere with certain medications and cause side effects such as muscle pain or numbness in the limbs.

See also: Licorice contains compounds that inhibit the development of melanoma

Ulcers and probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that provide healthy and important microorganisms to our digestive tract. They are present in many popular foods, especially fermented foods. They include:

1. buttermilk;
2. yogurt;
3. miso;
4. kimchi;
5. kefir.

You can also take probiotics in the form of supplements.

Research has shown that probiotics can be helpful in eliminating H. pylori bacteria and increasing the recovery rate in people with ulcers when added to traditional antibiotic therapy.

See also: Prebiotics, probiotics – who need them and should they be taken, what are they in?

Ulcers and honey

Honey isn’t just sweet. Depending on the plant it comes from, honey can contain up to 200 elements, including polyphenols and other antioxidants. It should be added that honey is a powerful antibacterial agent and has been shown to inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria.

As long as we have normal blood sugar levels, we can enjoy honey like any sweetener, with the added benefit of soothing ulcers.

Ulcers and garlic

Garlic extract has been shown to inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria in laboratory, animal and human studies.

If we do not like the taste (and lingering aftertaste) of garlic, we can take the garlic extract as a supplement. Garlic acts as a blood thinner, so talk to your doctor before taking if you’re taking warfarin and other prescription blood thinners or aspirin.

Ulcers and cranberries

Cranberry has been shown in some studies to help reduce urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from settling on the walls of the bladder. Cranberry extract can also help fight H. pylori bacteria.

We can drink cranberry juice, eat cranberry or take cranberry supplements. However, keep in mind that too much cranberry in any form can cause stomach and intestinal discomfort due to its high sugar content, so it is advisable to start small and increase it gradually.

Many commercial cranberry juices are heavily sweetened with sugar or high fructose corn syrup, which can also add empty calories. It is recommended to avoid such products.

See also: How to treat recurrent urinary tract infections?

Ulcers and mastic

Mastic is the sap of a tree that grows in the Mediterranean area.

Research into the effectiveness of mastic against H. pylori infection is mixed, but at least one small study shows that chewing gum containing mastic can help fight H. pylori bacteria by getting rid of them in about 3 in 10 people who have used it. . However, compared to the traditional combination of antibiotics and acid-blocking drugs, gum was significantly less effective than drugs. Traditional treatments got rid of the bacteria in more than 75 percent of the people tested.

You can chew the gum or take the mastic as a supplement.

See also: Chewing gum – why don’t orthodontists recommend it?

Ulcers and fruits, vegetables and whole grains

A diet focused on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is not only good for your overall health. According to the Mayo Clinic, a vitamin-rich diet can help the body heal ulcers.

Foods containing antioxidant polyphenols can protect us from ulcers and aid in ulcer healing. Foods and spices rich in polyphenols include:

1. dried rosemary;
2. Linseed;
3. oregano;
4. dark chocolate;
5. blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, elderberries and blackberries;
6. black olives.

Ulcer – Foods to Avoid

Just as some foods can prevent or speed ulcers from forming, some foods have the exact opposite effect.

People trying to heal or avoid stomach ulcers should consider minimizing their consumption of the following foods.

1. Milk: Although once recommended to reduce stomach acidity and relieve pain, new research shows that milk increases gastric acid secretion and should be avoided by people with ulcers.
2. Alcohol: alcohol consumption can damage the stomach and digestive tract, making ulcers more likely.
3. Coffee and non-alcoholic drinks: coffee and soft drinks, even when decaffeinated, can increase the production of stomach acid, which can irritate the stomach lining.
4. Spicy and fatty foods: extremely spicy or fatty foods can make some people feel irritated. The exception is chili peppers, based on personal tolerance.

In addition to avoiding the above foods, eating small meals at regular times, snacking throughout the day, eating slowly, and chewing your food well can help reduce pain and speed healing. Moreover, avoiding smoking and reducing stress are two additional useful anti-ulcer strategies.

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