Peptic Ulcers in Tulsa, OK
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Find a ProviderWhat is a peptic ulcer?
Peptic ulcers are open sores or ulcerations that occur in the stomach or upper small intestine that often cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding. The variation of cells that line the stomach are covered by a mucus layer that help protect the stomach against damage. If this protective layer in the stomach or small intestine becomes compromised, then stomach acid can damage the tissue.
Though anyone can have peptic ulcers, some people are at greater risk if they are age 50 or older or if they have a family history of peptic ulcers. The GI providers at an Adult Gastroenterology Associates location near you offer specialized care for this type of medical condition. If you need treatment for peptic ulcers in Tulsa, OK, contact our team today to request a consultation.
What causes peptic ulcers?
As described above, a peptic ulcer develops when the tissue in the small intestine or stomach is exposed to stomach acid, which erodes the tissue within the organ. There are two main reasons that cause erosion of the stomach lining.
Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori, commonly known as H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can enter your system in multiple ways and can harm the mucus lining of the stomach. This creates openings in the protective lining which can result in ulcers. When H. pylori is present, a provider could prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate the harmful bacteria.
Pain relievers
Specific types of pain relievers, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, can prevent your body from generating a chemical that works to protect the internal linings of your small intestine and stomach.
Other forms of pain relievers, like acetaminophen (Tylenol), do not cause the development of ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. This is one of the reasons why physicians recommend using pain medication in small and controlled amounts.
Risk factors for peptic ulcers
Other factors that increase the risk of developing gastric ulcers are:
- Regular use of NSAID pain relievers
- Eating acidic and spicy foods
- Tobacco use
- Drinking alcohol
- Stress
Our Tulsa, OK gastroenterologists are trained to recognize the signs of peptic ulcers and help identify factors that could be causing this condition.
What are the symptoms of peptic ulcers?
Because peptic ulcers are open sores in the stomach or small intestine, people frequently feel a burning sensation and discomfort in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peptic ulcers include:
- Unwanted weight loss
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Heartburn and acid reflux
- Belching
- Intolerance to fatty food
- Nausea
- Appetite loss
- Presence of blood in the stool
If you are vomiting or having bloody stools, reach out to your provider as soon as possible. If you have any combination of the above symptoms or you are unable to manage your condition with over-the-counter antacids, request a consultation with a GI provider at an Adult Gastroenterology Associates location near you.
What are the treatments for peptic ulcers?
Peptic ulcers can heal over time with treatment. Treatment options for peptic ulcers could include:
- Surgery
- Endoscopic procedures to cauterize bleeding arteries
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid
- Cytoprotective agents (medication to protect the lining of the small intestine and stomach)
- Antibiotics to kill H. pylori
- Decrease the use of specific types of pain medications
- Medications to reduce acid production (H-2 blockers)
Find treatment for peptic ulcers
Our digestive health specialists offer peptic ulcer treatments to Tulsa, OK patients and want to help you live your life without uncomfortable symptoms. Reach out to an Adult Gastroenterology Associates location in your community to explore your treatment options. To take the first step in resolving your peptic ulcer, request a consultation today.
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A good experience. Stacy was very helpful and pleasant when greeting me at her window. She explained how to fill out the info required. The nurse was extremely nice with her questions and taking blood pressure. Dr. McNamara was bery thorough talking about my problem and the procedure he would preform. No complaints at all about my visit other tham the length if time when the procedure would be done... 2 days before Christmas! However, part of that was my fault as I preferred to habe it done in my home town rather than Tulsa.
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