• H. pylori Bacteria: Commonly associated with peptic ulcer development.
• Prolonged Use of Medications: Such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms.
• Dietary Factors: Spicy foods may worsen peptic ulcers.

Symptoms: Manifestations of peptic ulcers often include:

• Burning pain in the stomach.
• Heartburn.
• Nausea and indigestion.
• Weight loss and loss of appetite.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic procedures utilized for peptic ulcer detection include:

• Laboratory Tests: Blood, stool, or breath tests to detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria.
• Endoscopy: Involves the insertion of an endoscope to visualize the digestive tract and collect tissue samples for analysis.
• Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Series: Barium swallow procedure followed by X-rays to identify ulcers and abnormalities in the upper digestive system.

Treatment: Treatment modalities for peptic ulcers encompass:

• Antibiotics: Prescribed to eradicate H. pylori bacteria.
• Acid Blocker Medications: Such as ranitidine and famotidine to reduce stomach acid production.
• Mucosal Protective Medications: Sucralfate and misoprostol are administered to protect the lining of the digestive tract.
• Antacids: Offered to neutralize stomach acid and alleviate pain.

Complications: Untreated peptic ulcers may lead to serious complications such as:

• Perforation of the digestive tract.
• Internal bleeding.
• Scarring of tissue, hindering food passage.
• Refractory ulcers requiring alternative treatment approaches.

Risk Factors: Several risk factors contribute to the development of peptic ulcers, including:

• Smoking and alcohol consumption.
• Spicy food consumption.
• Stressful lifestyles.