A duodenal ulcer is a sore in the lining of the intestine. It is in the first part of your small intestine, known as the duodenum. Ulcers can be treated. A small percentage of them may be cancerous. See your doctor if you think you may have a duodenal ulcer.
Ninety-five percent of duodenal ulcers are from a bacterial infection. They are caused by Helicobacter pylori ( H pylori ). Other causes include:
Some factors thought to increase the risk of duodenal ulcer are:
Symptoms of a duodenal ulcer may include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Other tests may include:
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Some ulcers will heal if you avoid caffeine, NSAIDs, alcohol, and tobacco. Other treatment options include:
Treatment with medications focuses on:
Medications used to treat gastric ulcers include:
If ulcers do not heal with medications, surgery may be needed. Surgery can remove the ulcers and/or reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes.
RESOURCES:
American College of Gastroenterology
http://www.acg.gi.org/
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Association of Gastroenterology
http://www.cag-acg.org/
Veteran's Affairs Canada
http://www.vac-acc.gc.ca/
References:
Duodenal peptic ulcer disease. DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Accessed July 5, 2007.
What I need to know about peptic ulcers. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/pepticulcers_ez/ . Accessed July 5, 2007.
Last reviewed January 2009 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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