H. Pylori, NSAIDs and the Stomach Ulcer
A stomach ulcer is a sore that appears in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. They are generally treated with a combination of medications to reduce stomach acid and an antibiotic to kill the infection that caused the ulcer in the first place. In years past, we used to hear many symptoms attributed to a stomach ulcer. Stress, spicy foods and many other factors were thought to be contributors of this often painful condition. However, we now know a lot more about the stomach ulcer, and have seen statistics that show that the presence of this condition is on the decline today for a number of reasons. To understand more about the stomach ulcer, it is helpful to learn about one of the common causes of this condition; H. pylori.
What is H. Pylori?
H. pylori is a bacteria that lives in your stomach or small intestine. This infection may be present in as many as half of the population across the globe, with the largest number found in underdeveloped countries. Many people who carry the bacteria will experience no symptoms, but that is not always the case. H. pylori is the leading cause of stomach inflammation and stomach ulcers. It may also contribute to the occurrence of some types of stomach cancers. If H. pylori is detected, a complex round of antibiotics is often prescribed to rid the body of the infection. Today, H. pylori is found most frequently in developing countries and in locations with poor sanitation. It is rarely found in the United States, which can account for the lower incidence of stomach ulcers that are diagnosed in this country today.
How NSAIDs can Play a Role
While H. pylori may be a rare contributor to a stomach ulcer in this country today, there is another culprit that is actually on the rise. This is the use and overuse of anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs. These medications are found under commercial names like Advil, Motrin and Aleve. When too much of these medications are taken, or they are taken over a long period of time, they can break down the protective mucous layer of the stomach much like H. pylori, which can lead to an stomach ulcer. The best way to prevent this condition from NSAIDs use is to use the medicines only as directed, and only for a matter of days before consulting with your doctor.
Stomach ulcers are a painful condition, but they are also a relatively rare one. If you suspect that you might have an ulcer and you have been a frequent user of NSAIDs or a visitor to a developmental country, you should see your doctor for a definitive diagnosis.
