NSAIDs pushing up stomach ulcer cases

Some years ago, when gastroenterologists treated stomach ulcers, the commonest cause for the condition was the presence of helicobacter pylori. But now, the condition, in which there is chronic inflammation of the inner lining of stomach, is most often a result of use of aspirin among those with heart diseases and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). 

Dr BS Ramakrishna, city-based senior consultant gastroenterologist, says that it is believed that there is a two to five per cent prevalence of the condition among the general population. “It is more common among the younger population, when it is caused by bacteria and in the age group above 60 years, when it is triggered by use of the analgesic drugs. Since women suffer more from conditions like arthritis that is treated with drugs that can cause the ulcers,” he said. 

The use of pain killers is also more prevalent among women, pointed out Dr P Basumani, Consultant, Gastroenterology, Fortis Malar Hospital. He said, “Apart from these, they also tend to go for some unguided herbal remedy that can also lead to the condition.”

Dr Basumani added that the ulcers could be caused by several other factors and is the second- most common condition seen among his patients, only after gastroesophageal reflux disease. “Acute stress due to a critical illness or a major surgery is the third common cause. It can also be classified under the lifestyle category, when it also involves the person having other habits like smoking or consuming alcohol. They are indirect contributors,” he said, adding that habits like midnight biriyani and working at odd hours, are other significant causes.

The ulcers are therefore very different, but the good news is they can be treated very well, when it is diagnosed quickly, he said. “A few weeks of antibiotics can help treat the condition more effectively and when a person doesn’t have indirect factors like smoking, recovery is definitely faster. The ulcers only leave behind a scar at the end of the treatment.” 

Dr Ramakrishna warned that when not treated, ulcers could burst or bleed. “In some rare cases, it can also lead to cancer.” Dr Basumani adds that in the rarest of cases, the ulcers can be an indication of cancer. “It is not alarming; it is just a chance. But provided it is also accompanied by weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting blood and anaemia, especially among those above 50 years of age, then it is cause of worry,” he said.