Úlceras Pépticas: Causas, Sintomas e Tratamento

Study Notes

Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers refer to open sores or lesions that form in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. They are typically caused by the erosion of the mucous barrier that protects the stomach and intestines from digestive juices. Peptic ulcers are common, with approximately 10 million new cases diagnosed each year.

Causes

The primary causes of peptic ulcers include infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and the prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Symptoms

Symptoms of peptic ulcers include abdominal pain, often described as a gnawing or burning sensation in the upper abdomen that may come and go for several days, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss, belching, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, or blood in stools.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing peptic ulcers typically involves an endoscopy, which is a minimally invasive procedure using a flexible tube with a camera attached to examine the upper digestive tract. Other diagnostic tools include X-ray imaging techniques such as barium swallow x-rays and biopsy tests to detect H. pylori infection.

Treatment Options

Treatment for peptic ulcers depends on the underlying cause. For bacterial infections caused by H. pylori, antibiotic therapy along with antacids, acid blockers, or other drugs may be used. For NSAID-induced ulcers, discontinuing NSAIDs when possible often resolves the ulcer within two months. In severe cases, a combination of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 receptor antagonists may be required.

Prevention

Preventing peptic ulcers primarily involves maintaining good hygiene habits to avoid H. pylori infection, reducing stress, avoiding smoking, and monitoring medication intake, especially NSAIDs.

Description

Este quiz aborda as úlceras pépticas, incluindo suas causas, sintomas, métodos de diagnóstico, opções de tratamento e medidas de prevenção. As úlceras pépticas são feridas que se formam no revestimento do estômago ou duodeno e são comuns, afetando milhões de pessoas anualmente.