Ulcer is a killer, Physician alerts

Dr. Okezie Emenike, an Abuja-based physician, said on Monday that untreated ulcer could be life threatening.
Emenike said this in an interview with the news Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.
The physician described ulcer as a painful sore that could be found in the stomach lining, lower esophagus or small intestine.
It could also occur when the thick layer of mucus that protects the stomach from digestive juices was reduced.
Emenike identified two types of ulcer: stomach and peptic ulcer.
He explained that peptic ulcer has three categories, including gastric, esophegal and duodenal.
According to him, ulcer is not caused by a single factor, saying an infection with the bacterium helicobacter pylori is one of the factors that could cause ulcer development.
He also attributed long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin as another factor that could predispose an individual to ulcer.
He said: “Excess acid in the stomach, stress, smoking as well as certain foods cause the condition.
“Genetics, being over 50 years old and excessive intake of alcohol were also causative factors to ulcer development.
“Over production of calcium in the body and frequent use of steroids such as those used in treating asthma puts an individual at risk of developing ulcer.”
However, the physician said prevention of ulcer should start from lifestyle changes such as cooking and cleaning of foods properly if caused by bacterial infection.
Emenike also encouraged washing of hands with soap at all times to prevent the spread of bacteria as well as reduce risk of bacterial infection that causes the condition.
He recommended limiting of alcohol consumption, non-smoking as well as managing stress properly to help prevent ulcer development.
He also suggested non-usage or limits usage of NSAIDS drugs and avoid mixing alcohol with medications, adding that it helps prevent the risk of developing ulcer caused by it.
Besides, Emenike said treatment of ulcer should start from knowing its underlying causes.
He stressed that ulcer caused by H.pylori bacteria should be treated with antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors to help reduce stomach acid.
He further recommended over the counter drugs such as Acid blockers could be used to reduce acid build up as well as pain.
The physician suggested surgery in extreme cases as another measure in treating the condition.
He advised individuals to maintain healthy lifestyle through eating balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains noting that it helps prevent in prevention of ulcer.
Emenike also enjoined patients susceptible to the condition to avoid alcohol, smoking as well as fried and oily foods.
NAN.