Health Tips for August 29

Health Tip: Preventing a Peptic Ulcer

An ulcer is a breakdown in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. A certain type of bacterial infection is the most frequent cause, but lifestyle factors may also raise your risk.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists these preventive steps that may ward off a peptic ulcer:

• Limit alcohol to no more than two drinks daily.
• Stop smoking or chewing tobacco.
• If you need to take painkillers, avoid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen, ibuprofen or aspirin. Consider, with your doctor's approval, acetaminophen instead.

Health Tip: Warning Signs of Peptic Ulcer

A peptic ulcer is a sore that occurs in the lining of the stomach or small intestine.

A bacterium, called H. pylori, causes the sore to form. While the foods you eat don't cause peptic ulcers, foods can aggravate these sores.

Peptic ulcers can be treated with antibiotics and acid-reducing medications.

The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse lists these common warning signs of a peptic ulcer:

• Dull pain in the abdomen.
• Abdominal pain that fluctuates, but often occurs on an empty stomach or several hours after a meal.
• Abdominal pain that subsides after eating or taking antacid medications.
• Loss of weight and lack of appetite.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Feeling bloated or frequent burping.