Fresh Gastric Ulcers

A Gastric Ulcer is defined as a hole in the lining of the Stomach corroded by the acidic digestive juices that are secreted by the stomachs parietal cells.

There are several causes for the onset of gastric ulceration.

Thinning the mucus layer in the stomach allow the proliferation of H. Pylori bacteria. The corkscrew shaped bacterium is dormant in the stomach, of many people, as long as there is sufficient mucus barrier to hide in and the presences of sufficiently strong hydrochloric acid.

The bacterium is the most common cause of ulcers worldwide. H. Pylori infection may be acquired from contaminated food and water, or through person to person contact.

The over production of Hydrochloric acid, and life style have a definite effect on the incidents of gastric ulceration.

Stress is one of the major contributors to the formation of gastric ulceration.

Diet also has an effect on the formation of ulcers. Highly acidic foods, soft drinks, smoking, sugar, contribute to the onset of ulcers, also.

The over use of H2 antagonist medications, or Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs.) will allow the onset of the bacteria, because they stop the production of Hydrochloric acid.

The use of mucus reducing medications also contributes to the onset of gastric ulcers.

If left untreated ulcers can result in gastric carcinoma.