“Being A Student Can Cause You Ulcer"

Like many Nigerian university students, I lived in the hostel, where we all drank untreated water from bore-holes. Little did I know I had already been infected with Helicobacter pylori, resulting in a stomach ulcer. My irregular eating pattern was also a contributing factor, as I was either too broke to afford a proper 3-square meal or running from one lecture theater to another. Some days I skipped breakfast, while other days I broke my long fast with late-night garri and groundnut and a plate of hot spicy noodles as dessert. I never knew ulcers could disrupt daily life until I started having severe pains, which made me miss lectures. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and effective management strategies can empower you to live a healthy life.

What is Peptic Ulcer?

Peptic Ulcer is a condition caused by a discontinuity in the inner lining of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) due to gastric acid secretion or pepsin. It can be gastric ulcer, affecting the mucosal lining of the stomach, or duodenal ulcer, which affects the proximal part of the small intestine.

Female student experiencing ulcer pain in her hostel

Causes of Peptic Ulcer

A leading cause of these ulcers is an infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria. This bacterium enters the body through contaminated water, food, or oral fluid contact. It disrupts the stomach's protective mucous layer, leading to inflammation. Studies have shown that approximately 70% to 90% of gastric ulcer cases are linked to H. pylori.

Other contributing factors include:

• Long-term use of NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and diclofenac, can irritate the stomach lining.

  
  

• Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol is a strong irritant to the protective mucus layer of the stomach, exposing it to more Hydrochloric acid, which is the stomach acid.

  
  

• Smoking and Stress are other factors that can worsen symptoms and slow the healing process.

  
  

Symptoms of Gastric and Peptic Ulcers

Recognizing the symptoms of gastric and duodenal ulcers is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. Common signs include:

• Abdominal pain: Often presented as a burning sensation, this pain typically occurs between meals or at night. This pain can also be referred to the back in severe cases.

  
  

• Nausea and vomiting: Affected individuals might experience nausea that can lead to vomiting, especially after meals.

  
  

• Other symptoms include Bloating, indigestion, loss of appetite, weight loss, and dark or bloody stools in severe cases.

  
  

If you experience severe symptoms such as vomiting blood or black stools, you can seek medical attention from our doctors.

Healthy meals for ulcer management

Effective Strategies for Managing Gastric and Peptic Ulcers

• Proper diagnosis and use of antibiotics as prescribed by a doctor.

  
  

• Healthy Eating: Eat frequently and prioritize eating a balanced diet. Foods like Pap(akamu), oats, porridge, vegetables, and fruits like bananas, papaya, avocado, and watermelon can be gentle to the stomach. Avoid spicy foods and citric fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and pineapples as they can increase irritation.

  
  

• Limit NSAID use: If you require long-term pain relief, consult with your doctor before use. Prescribed antacids can be used to relieve pain.

  
  

• Stopping tobacco and alcohol use can lead to improved healing.

  
  

• Stress management: Reducing your stress level by engaging in exercises and activities that help manage stress is important.

  
  

• Regular check-ups: Do not rely on self-medication. Visit a doctor for proper tests and treatment.

A Patient consulting with her doctor on ulcer management

Final Thoughts

I made mistakes such as self-medicating and drinking bitter herbs, which worsened my condition. Ulcers are manageable when you are informed and proactive. Have you ever had an ulcer as a student or adult? How did you manage it? Join our infectious disease community for healthier lifestyle tips and also share your experience in the comment section - you might be helping someone.