A sore in the lining in the ach or duodenum. Most commonly caused by infection with the bacterium h. pylori

What is an ulcer?

Sharp abdominal pains, bloating, nausea. Very strong burning sensation in your stomach.

Signs and symptoms

Most Common:

Gastric

Ulcer

Duodenal Ulcer

Diagnosis•Barium Upper GI X-ray: eating a digestible Barium solution allows the ulcer to become visible in an x-ray.

•Endoscopy: Feeding a camera on a tube through the alimentary canal.

•Breath Test: For H. Pylori. Drink a solution which emits a

detectable gas in the presence of the bacterium.

Why might a sore form in the stomach?

HClPepsin

A peptic ulcer is literally a result of the stomach digesting itself.

Spiral shape- Allows H. Pylori to penetrate mucosal layer

Urease- Ammonia generating enzyme which neutralizes acid

Other Problems- Secreates toxins which lead to inflammation. Carcinogenic.

•Radiation Treatments

•Bacterial/Viral infection

•Alcohol Abuse

"Causes of Peptic Ulcers." University of Maryland Medical References. Web. 10 Apr. 2012. <http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/what_causes_peptic_ulcers_000019_2. htm>.“National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC)." Home. Web. 10 Apr. 2012. <http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/>.

"Understanding Peptic Ulcer Disease : AGA." American Gastroenterological Association. Web. 10 Apr. 2012. <http://www.gastro.org/patient-center/digestive- conditions/peptic-ulcer-disease>.

"Ulcers and Bacteria." University of Waterloo. Web. 10 Apr. 2012. <http://cogsci.uwaterloo.ca/Articles/Pages/Ulcers.one.html>.