Do You Have an Ulcer or GERD

Do you have an uncomfortable pain in your stomach that gets worse when you eat? Both GERD and ulcers can make your daily life a pain but are two separate conditions that need to be treated differently so it is important to be able to recognize the differences.

How to Recognize an Ulcer
Peptic ulcers are open wounds or sores that can develop inside the lining of your stomach and the upper part of your small intestines. There are two different kinds of peptic ulcers, gastric and duodenal ulcers. Gastric ulcers are the ones that form in your stomach lining while duodenal ulcers are located in your small intestine.

Your stomach produces acid that is essential to breaking down the food you eat. To protect your body from this harsh substance, a protective layer of mucus coats your stomach lining and small intestine. If this mucus layer is worn away, the acid will begin to cause damage, creating an ulcer. Ulcers are most often caused by a bacterial infection (H. pylori) or the use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen.

Ulcer Symptoms
  • A burning or gnawing pain in your stomach
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Nausea

Diagnosing an ulcer can be done through tests for the H. pylori bacteria or through an internal test called a gastroscopy.

How to Recognize GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, happens when stomach acid flows back up your oesophagus. Most people will get acid reflux from time to time, especially after drinking or as they get older. This isn’t anything to worry about and can usually be managed with medications or small lifestyle changes. If the reflux is more severe and is happening several times a week, stronger treatment may be needed.

GERD Symptoms
  • Heartburn that is worse after eating or at night
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Feeling like something is stuck in your throat
  • Chest pain
  • Regurgitating food or sour tasting liquid
  • Diagnosing GERD is often done through medical tests like an endoscopy or tests to monitor how much acid is in your stomach.

Treatment
Once diagnosed, many people take medications to help manage the symptoms caused by ulcers and GERD. You can buy GERD and ulcer treatments like Lansoprazole Capsules and Omeprazole Losec Capsules online in the UK at Pharmacy Planet.