Peptic Ulcer

Pain in peptic ulceration is generally of the visceral type, localized in epigastrium and confined to small area tenderness on deep pressure, extreme associated with muscular rigidity. In cancer of the stomach the pain is often more constant because of the partial penetration of the stomach wall and involvement of the peritoneum.

Vomiting occurs after digestion has been in process, when gastric pain is at its height. Vomiting may diminish or abolish pain. Vomiting occurs especially when the pylorus is obstructed. Abdominal pain is relieved by vomiting. Vomiting of gastric pain is generally preceded by nausea. Nausea is a sensation of sickness. It is frequently accompanied by salivation, sweating and a feeling of faintness. Disturbance of appetite - loss of appetite or anorexia is particular common in local diseases of the stomach such as gastritis and carcinoma. Heartburn is a scalding or burning sensation experienced behind the sternum. Examination should follow the routine described under the respiratory and cardiovascular systems - inspection, palpation, percussion and auscultation - though inspection and palpation are by far the most important methods of approach. Inspection shows the condition of the abdominal wall, the size of the abdomen and any irregularity in its color caused by enlargement of viscera or the presence of abnormal swelling in the abdominal cavity.

It is known that there is a liability for first - degree relatives of proposity to develop the same type of ulcer. Both gastritis and duodenal ulcers are characterized by periodic attacks of epigastric pain, often in the spring and autumn month, separated by symptom - free intervals. The pain usually occurs in a steady fashion from 30 minutes to 3 hours after meals and is relieved by antacids and by certain food, milk especially “hunger pains”, which are generally relieved by food. Tenderness in the epigastrium during exacerbations is the only constant physical sign. Peptic ulcer may be complicated by hemorrhage, pyloric stenosis or perforation.

Ex. 9. Read the text “Indigestion”. Find the synonyms to: indigestion, bloated feeling, belching, upset stomach, antacids. Make up your own sentences with these words. Render the content of the text.

Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

Essentially a set of symptoms that together define a nonspecific condition called indigestion o r ”upset stomach”.

Symptoms: Bloated or full feeling, heartburn, nausea or vomiting; belching or regurgitation; gas or upset stomach, abdominal and intestinal cramping, constipation or diarrhea; and lack of appetite.

Cause: Many possible causes; spicy or rich food, overeating, eating too fast, excessive stomach acid; inadequate digestive functions; stress, anxiety and tension, excessive use of alcoholic beverages. (However, it may be a warning signal for another underlying problem or for developing peptic ulcer) or often liquids (such as coffee, soft drinks, etc.), insufficient bile secretion to aid in digestion, underlying digestive disease.

Treatment: Sometimes antacids are recommended. Also important to reduce stress, change diet to less spicy food; reduce or stop consumption of alcohol and other acidic liquids; and eat smaller amounts of food. If condition persists or becomes problematic, a physician should be consulted to determine if any underlying problem (liver disease, bile production) is to blame and can be treated.

Ex.10. Read the text and ask as many questions as you can. Write them down.