Stomach ulcers occur when there is an erosion of the protective lining in the walls of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum leading to injury.

This injury happens when the stomach acids, almost as corrosive as battery acid, burns the stomach walls.

Male anatomy of human organs in x-ray view

This can lead to pain, indigestion, burning a hole through your stomach (perforation), internal bleeding and even death.
There are two main causes of stomach ulcers; an infection of H. Pylori bacteria and frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Other risk factors include, being overweight, being a smoker and being over the age of 40 years.

Contrary to popular belief, pepper and stress do not cause ulcers, but can aggravate an existing ulcer. Symptoms of a stomach ulcer include dull pain in the stomach, heartburn, nausea or vomiting, indigestion and loss of appetite.

Treatment is dependent on the cause and type of ulcer, so it is imperative to get seen by a doctor and avoid self medication.

For ulcers caused by the bacteria H.Pylori, treatment usually involves an antibiotic, an antacid and a special drug used to reduce stomach acids secretion.

Ulcers caused by medications require treatment that is usually geared toward neutralizing stomach acid, reducing stomach acid secretions, and coating the lining of the stomach.

All these measures are taken to reduce further irritation, and allow the stomach to heal. Other treatment measures that address stomach ulcers include; elevating the head of your bed at night to sleep, avoiding spicy foods, drinking tons of water, eating an alkaline diet, smoking cessation and stress reduction.

Natural remedies for ulcer treatment are also very safe and effective, as these therapies focus on healing the stomach walls efficiently, including ulcers that also need antibiotic treatment. Herbs with mucilaginous (slimy) properties work very well to coat the stomach walls, and soothe the digestive tract.

These herbs include the local ‘ewedu’ and ‘okra’ as well as flax seeds and chia seeds. Taking these foods at the beginning of every meal, can help to soothe ulcers even better than an antacid.

Other natural treatments include; using honey and garlic for their antibacterial properties, turmeric for anti inflammatory properties and plantain for its acid reducing properties.

Certain colourful fruits such as oranges, lemons and nuts, contain certain chemicals known as flavinoids that help protect the lining of the stomach.

Probiotics are also very important in helping restore healthy bacteria to the stomach and can be found in natural yogurt or in supplement pill form. Incorporate a healthy diet into your lifestyle to include lots of fruits and vegetables.

Avoid eating fried foods, caffeine, fruit juices and carbonated drinks as these types of foods can aggravate ulcers. Finally, people with stomach ulcers are encouraged to drink a lot of water, at least 3 litres at minimum for an adult.

Drinking water especially during an ulcer attack, can help dilute the acids in the stomach. If the person suffering from ulcers doesn’t have a history of high blood pressure, a quarter of a teaspoon of baking soda mixed in to the bottles of water, can also further help neutralize stomach acids and bring relief from the pain of ulcers.

Ulcers can literally be a pain in the stomach, however early detection, treatment and dietary modifications can bring about significant and permanent relief.

I wish you all a happy and healthy week!

By Tobi Ayodele Keeney