Duodenal Ulcer
An open sore in the first part of the small intestine, commonly caused by H. pylori.
Overview
Duodenal ulcers are more common than gastric ulcers, occurring in the first part of the duodenum. Unlike gastric ulcers, they are rarely malignant. H. pylori causes 90-95% of cases. PPIs + H. pylori eradication cures most patients.
Causes
- H. pylori infection (90-95%)
- NSAIDs
- Smoking
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (rare)
- Physiological stress
Risk Factors
- H. pylori infection
- NSAID use
- Smoking
- Male gender
- Blood group O
- Psychological stress
Symptoms
Diagnosis
- Upper GI endoscopy
- H. pylori testing
- Blood tests for anemia
- CT scan if perforation suspected
Treatment Options
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is needed only for complications: perforation (laparoscopic omental patch repair), massive hemorrhage (endoscopic therapy first, surgery if fails), or gastric outlet obstruction (gastrojejunostomy or pyloroplasty). Elective ulcer surgery (vagotomy) is now extremely rare due to effective PPI therapy.
Recovery
Perforated ulcer repair: 3-5 days hospital stay. PPIs for 8 weeks. H. pylori eradication. Confirm healing with repeat endoscopy at 8 weeks.
Prevention
- Test and treat H. pylori
- Avoid unnecessary NSAIDs
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol
Frequently Asked Questions
Are duodenal ulcers dangerous?
Can duodenal ulcers come back?
Expert Consultation Available
Get personalized treatment advice from Dr. Bhagat. Book an appointment or connect via WhatsApp for a quick consultation.