Peptic ulcer disease refers to painful sores or ulcers in the lining of the stomach or first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum.
An ulcer is the end result of an imbalance between digestive fluids in the stomach and duodenum. Most ulcers are caused by an infection with a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), but they may also be caused by long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
If symptoms occur, they may include:
- A gnawing or burning pain in the middle or upper stomach between meals or at night
- Bloating
- Heartburn
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dark or black stool (due to bleeding)
- Vomiting blood (that can look like "coffee-grounds")
- Weight loss
- Severe pain in the mid to upper abdomen
How is a Peptic Ulcer Diagnosed?
To diagnose an ulcer and its cause, Dr. Bhatti will use information from your medical history and tests/exams:
- A physical exam
- Blood tests
- CT scans
- EGD
Minnesota Peptic Ulcer Doctor
Both of the common causes (extended use of NSAIDs and H. pylori bacteria) can be treated using a combination of medication. Dr. Bhatti will analyze your needs specifically before recommending the best treatment.
Schedule an appointment at Bhatti GI if you are experiencing ulcerative symptoms. Dr. Bhatti is board-certified and has decades of experience treating patients throughout the state of Minnesota.
Click to learn more about peptic ulcer disease.
Locations
Chaska GI Clinic
1457 White Oak Dr
Chaska, MN 55318
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801
St. Francis Regional Medical Center
1515 St. Francis Ave. #250
Shakopee, MN 55379
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801
Edina GI Clinic
6500 Barrie Rd.
Edina, MN 55435
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801