March 27, 2009

Health Tip: Warning Signs of Peptic Ulcer

(HealthDay News) -- A peptic ulcer is a sore that occurs in the lining of the stomach or small intestine.

A bacterium, called H. pylori, causes the sore to form. While the foods you eat don't cause peptic ulcers, foods can aggravate these sores.

Peptic ulcers can be treated with antibiotics and acid-reducing medications.

The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse lists these common warning signs of a peptic ulcer:

• Dull pain in the abdomen.
• Abdominal pain that fluctuates, but often occurs on an empty stomach or several hours after a meal.
• Abdominal pain that subsides after eating or taking antacid medications.
• Loss of weight and lack of appetite.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Feeling bloated or frequent burping.

-- Diana Kohnle

id=625231