What is H. Pylori?

Pylori is a bacteria that can be found in the stomach. This spiral shaped bacteria can attack the lining of the digestive tract causing ulcers in the stomach and small bowel. If left untreated and allowed to duplicate, the inflammation worsens and the possibility of stomach cancer increases. There are multiple ways to diagnose an infection with H.Pylori. If present, H. Pylori is treated with antibiotics. The other major cause of stomach and small bowel ulcers is Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Aleve, Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin.

Can stress cause stomach ulcers?

Stress causes an increase in the amount of acid in the stomach but it does not cause ulcers unless the H. Pylori bacteria or NSAIDs have already started to damage the lining of the stomach. Stomach ulcers cause a burning sensation in the upper abdomen that may dissipate after a person eats. This pain can often flare up in the middle of the night, causing extreme discomfort and disrupt sleep.

How are stomach ulcers treated?

Stomach ulcers that are the direct result of the H. Pylori bacteria are treated with antibiotics. If you are diagnosed with a stomach ulcer and are taking NSAIDs, you will be asked to stop those medications to allow the ulcer to heal. Medications that control the amount of acid in the stomach are often used as well. H2 blockers stop the stomach from making too much stomach acid. The cells that actually produce the stomach acid can be blocked with the use of proton pump inhibitors. Antacids are also used to break down existing stomach acid that has already been produced. Doctors also recommend eliminating the use of tobacco and alcohol. Both can irritate the stomach, increasing the risk of ulcers and lesions.