Peptic ulcer

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a break in the lining of the stomach, first part of the small intestine or occasionally the lower esophagus. An ulcer in thestomach is known as a gastric ulcer while that in the first part of the intestines is known as a duodenal ulcer.

a lesion in the lining (mucosa) of the digestive tract, typically in the stomach or duodenum, caused by the digestive action of pepsin and stomach acid.

Causes of peptic ulcers. Different factors can cause the lining of the stomach, the esophagus, and the small intestine to break down. These include:Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type of bacteria that can cause a stomach infection and inflammation

The common symptoms of a duodenal ulcer include:

• Upper abdominal pain or pain below the breastbone which usually comes and goes. Often, this pain will occur before meals, when you are hungry and even wake you from your sleep.
• Stomach bloating.
• Retching.
• Vomiting.
• Nausea or feeling sick.
• Heartburn.
• Bloody stools.

The symptoms can be made worse by your stomach acid. It is not entirely clear why ulcers start but stress and diet, especially a fattydiet, are big contributing factors. A higher intake of fat can greatly increase your chance of getting an ulcer in the first place and cause other gastrointestinal problems