PEPTIC ULCER Meaning and
Definition
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A peptic ulcer is a medical condition characterized by the formation of open sores, typically in the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the upper part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcer). These ulcers develop when there is an imbalance between the acid produced in the stomach and the protective mechanisms of the stomach lining.
The main cause of peptic ulcers is commonly attributed to a bacterial infection called Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium weakens the protective mucus produced in the stomach lining, making it more susceptible to the damaging effects of stomach acid. Certain lifestyle factors such as excessive consumption of alcohol, tobacco use, and prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also increase the risk of developing peptic ulcers.
The most common symptoms associated with peptic ulcers include a persistent burning pain or discomfort in the abdomen, which is often relieved with food or antacids. Other signs may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, weight loss, or black, tarry stools indicating bleeding from the ulcer.
Diagnosis of peptic ulcers usually involves a combination of methods, including a thorough medical history, physical examination, and possibly an endoscopy or imaging tests. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications to decrease stomach acid production, kill the H. pylori bacteria (if present), and promote healing of the ulcer. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, reducing stress, and quitting smoking may also be recommended.
If left untreated, peptic ulcers can lead to complications such as bleeding, perforation (a hole in the stomach or intestine wall), or obstruction in the digestive tract. Therefore, seeking medical attention and adhering to the prescribed treatments are crucial in managing peptic ulcers effectively and preventing further complications
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Round u., an ulcer of the mucous membrane of the stomach or duodenum, caused by the action of the gastric juice upon a portion where the nutrition has been interfered with in some way.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PEPTIC ULCER
- oeptic ulcer
- leptic ulcer
- -eptic ulcer
- 0eptic ulcer
- pwptic ulcer
- psptic ulcer
- pdptic ulcer
- prptic ulcer
- p4ptic ulcer
- p3ptic ulcer
- peotic ulcer
- peltic ulcer
- pe-tic ulcer
- pe0tic ulcer
- pepric ulcer
- pepfic ulcer
- pepgic ulcer
- pepyic ulcer
- pep6ic ulcer
Etymology of PEPTIC ULCER
The word "peptic ulcer" has its etymology rooted in two primary terms: "peptic" and "ulcer".
The term "peptic" comes from the Greek word "peptikos", which means "digestive" or "concerning digestion". This word is derived from the Greek verb "peptein", meaning "to digest" or "to cook".
The term "ulcer" originates from the Latin word "ulcus", which means "a sore" or "an open wound". It can be traced further back to the Proto-Indo-European root word "*olgos", meaning "pain" or "ache".
Combining these two terms, "peptic ulcer" refers to an open sore or wound that occurs in the digestive system, particularly in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
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