A peptic ulcer is a crater-like hole at the beginning of the stomach or small intestine. Gastric ulcers form in the stomach, and duodenal ulcers form at the beginning of the small intestine. Duodenal ulcers occur in 12% to 15% of adults in the United States.

The occurrence of ulcers is caused by the rupture of the protective barrier of the stomach and intestines. The digestive juice is very acidic, but there are some secreting substances, such as bicarbonate and mucus, which can neutralize this acidity. These protective secretions are emitted to prevent ulceration. The destruction of the inner layer of the small intestine or stomach results in ulceration due to the destruction of these protective barriers.

The main culprit for this loss of integrity and ulcer development is as follows:

#1. The Helicobacter pylori is an infection that attaches to the protective lining of the stomach and weakens it.

#2. food allergy

#3. Excessive use of naproxen, ibuprofen and aspirin increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding

#4. Emotional stress may be a causative factor

#5. Smoking is an important factor

It is difficult to diagnose symptoms that are sometimes blurred by ulcers. The most common symptom is abdominal pain, which feels like pain, burning sensation or paralysis. This feeling of biting can occur between forty-five minutes to two hours after a meal.

Sometimes this "heartburn" type of feeling will worsen at night. Other symptoms are melena, vomiting or nausea. The doctor can perform a procedure called endoscopy to assess the condition. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Individuals with peptic ulcers must be monitored by a physician. Serious complications can quickly translate into a “medical emergency”. One of the biggest problems is that individuals experiencing these symptoms will cover them with a large amount of antacids. These supplements, natural remedies and dietary considerations have proven to be beneficial:

#1. Vitamin A.

#2. Vitamin E.

#3. Vitamin C

#4. Aloe Vera – Drink a few cups a day

#5. Increase dietary fiber

#6. Flavonoid

#7. Cabbage juice

#8. rhubarb

#9. Bismuth Sub-citrate – Natural minerals supplied through a compound pharmacy.

#10. Licorice

Last but not least, the pressure is controlled by effective relaxation techniques. Practicing deep breathing through Pilates, yoga or stretching exercises can provide a beneficial treatment. Stress management, high fiber diets and antacids [only occasionally] are helpful. The combination of all of these is the key to preventing and curing ulcers.

Pilates – Gentle Therapist of Ulcers was originally published on Spring