Duodenal ulcers are ulcers
located in the duodenum,
which is the first part/section of the small
intestine.
Causes of duodenal ulcers may include:
- Duodenal ulcers are caused by the action of acid
and pepsin on the duodenal lining (mucosa).
- Duodenal ulcers are usually associated with an
increased output of stomach acid.
- The antrum of the stomach (i.e. the lower part of the stomach -
which leads to the duodenum) is almost always infected with helicobacter
pylori.
Symptoms & Effects of duodenal ulcers may
include:
-
Pain in the upper abdomen (especially when the stomach is empty).
-
Vomiting may also occur.
-
Complications may include bleeding, perforation, and obstruction due
to scarring.
Medical Tests and Treatments for duodenal ulcers
may involve use of drugs to relieve the symptoms.
Surgery for duodenal ulcers is rarely necessary nowadays.
More about the Digestive
System:
This section includes pages about:
*
Introduction to the Digestive System
*
Terminology about Digestion
* Passage
through the alimentary tract
* Component Parts of the Digestive System, incl. Teeth,
Stomach,
Liver,
Small
Intestine,
Large Intestine
* Chemical
Processes in the Digestive System (introductory level)
*
Diseases and Disorders of the Digestive System.
For further information see also our pages of
books about gastroenterology. |
  |
This section
is about
Diseases
and Disorders of the Digestive System.
To read about other diseases, disorders, or conditions of the digestive
system, use the links on the left-side of this page.
See also glossary pages about
Tissues
and Organs of the
Digestive System. |
