[Common Diseases] Peptic Ulcer
🥼 What is a stomach ulcer?
A gastric ulcer (Peptic Ulcer) is a condition in which the gastric or duodenal mucosa breaks down, forming an ulcer . Shallow ulcers may only cause mild discomfort, but if they penetrate deep into blood vessels, they can lead to serious complications such as bleeding and perforation.
In Hong Kong, gastric ulcer is a common digestive system disease and is closely related to lifestyle habits, Helicobacter pylori infection and medication use .
🔍 Common causes of gastric ulcers in Hong Kong
Based on information from the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, the Hong Kong Society of Gastroenterology, and international medical journals, the editor has compiled the following:
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Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
- The infection rate among adults in Hong Kong is approximately 40%-55%, and it is the main cause of gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers.
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Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, which can weaken the protective layer of the gastric mucosa.
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Excessive drinking and smoking
- Alcohol directly irritates the stomach lining, while tobacco slows down the healing of ulcers.
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Long-term mental stress and bad eating habits
- While stress is not a direct cause, it can exacerbate symptoms.
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Other diseases or surgical effects
- Such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and abnormal gastric acid secretion after gastric surgery.
⚠️ Common symptoms of gastric ulcer
The editor has sorted out common symptoms to help everyone identify which one is right for them (but the diagnosis must be confirmed by a doctor):
- Burning pain in the upper abdomen, usually occurring 30 minutes to 2 hours after a meal
- Abdominal distension and indigestion after meals
- Nausea and vomiting
- weight loss
- Black stools or vomiting blood (indicating gastric bleeding, a critical symptom)
🏥 Treatment of gastric ulcer in Hong Kong
The editor emphasizes that the goal of gastric ulcer treatment is to eliminate the cause, promote ulcer healing, and prevent complications and recurrence .
1. Treatment targeting the cause
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Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy
- Triple therapy (PPI acid-suppressing drug + two antibiotics, such as amoxicillin + clarithromycin) is commonly used for 7-14 days.
- If drug resistance is high or treatment fails, quadruple therapy (PPI + colloidal bismuth + two antibiotics) will be used instead.
- According to the guidelines of the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, a breath test or stool antigen test is required after treatment to confirm eradication.
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Stop or reduce NSAIDs
- If it is necessary to use it, the doctor will prescribe PPI or mucosal protective agent.
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Treating other causes
- For example, conditions that control excess stomach acid (such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome).
2. Drug treatment promotes ulcer healing
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acid-suppressing drugs
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs, such as omeprazole and esomeprazole)
- H2 receptor antagonists (such as famotidine)
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Gastric mucosal protective agent
- Sucralfate, colloidal bismuth
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Antacids (for short-term relief of symptoms)
- Such as preparations containing magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide.
3. Lifestyle and diet adjustments
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- Eat small meals frequently to avoid overeating at one time
- Reduce irritating foods : spicy, sour, fried foods, coffee, strong tea
- Reduce stress and get enough sleep
- Maintain a regular diet and avoid prolonged fasting
🏥 Hong Kong Examination and Medical Pathways
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Gastroscopy
- It is the gold standard for diagnosing gastric ulcers. It can directly observe the location and severity of the ulcer, and can also take tissue to detect Helicobacter pylori and rule out gastric cancer.
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Helicobacter pylori test
- Urea Breath Test
- stool antigen test
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public hospitals
- The general practitioner will refer the patient to a medical or surgical specialist for gastroscopy and treatment.
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Private medical care
- Gastroscopy can be arranged more quickly and is suitable for people with warning symptoms or who need urgent diagnosis and treatment.
🚨Possible complications of gastric ulcer
- Gastric bleeding (melena, hematemesis)
- Gastric perforation (sudden, severe abdominal pain requiring emergency surgery)
- Pyloric obstruction (long-standing ulcers cause scarring and contraction, blocking food flow)
- Gastric cancer (chronic H. pylori infection increases risk)
💡 Editor's Tips
- Do not take painkillers or stomach medicine on your own for a long time to avoid delaying diagnosis.
- Complete a full course of eradication treatment to avoid drug resistance and relapse.
- Regular follow-up consultations and gastroscopy follow-up are recommended , especially for those with a family history of gastric cancer or those with suspicious ulcer locations.
- Watch out for warning symptoms such as vomiting blood, black stools, rapid weight loss, and difficulty swallowing, and seek medical attention immediately.
- Keep a food diary to identify foods that trigger discomfort.
💬Editor’s summary :
While gastric ulcers are common, they are not a minor ailment. With targeted treatment, appropriate medication, and healthy lifestyle habits , most patients can recover and avoid recurrence. Hong Kong's healthcare resources, both public and private, provide effective diagnosis and treatment. It's crucial not to delay treatment, as serious complications can be life-threatening.
📌 Disclaimer <br>This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. It is sourced from major medical articles.
