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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Peptic and Gastric Ulcer?

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The main difference between peptic and gastric ulcers lies in their location within the digestive system.

  • Peptic ulcers are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. Peptic ulcers include:
  • Gastric ulcers: These occur on the inside of the stomach.
  • Duodenal ulcers: These occur on the inside of the duodenum.

Both gastric and duodenal ulcers are types of peptic ulcers, and they share similar causes, symptoms, and treatments. The most common causes of peptic ulcers include:

  • Infection with the H. pylori bacteria, which damages the protective mucus lining of the stomach and duodenum.
  • Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, which can damage the protective mucus lining.

Some common symptoms of peptic ulcers are:

  • Dull or burning pain in the belly between the breastbone and the navel, often occurring around mealtimes and waking you up at night.
  • Feeling full after eating a small amount, bloating, or nausea.

While both gastric and duodenal ulcers are considered peptic ulcers, the distinction between the two terms comes down to their location within the digestive system. In summary:

  • Gastric ulcers are peptic ulcers that occur in the stomach.
  • Duodenal ulcers are peptic ulcers that occur in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.
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  • What is the Difference Between Peptic and Gastric Ulcer?
  • Comparative Table: Peptic vs Gastric Ulcer

    • Comparative Table: Peptic vs Gastric Ulcer

    Here is a table comparing the differences between peptic and gastric ulcers:

    Characteristic Peptic Ulcers Gastric Ulcers
    Definition Peptic ulcers are open sores in the lining of the digestive tract, including the stomach and duodenum. Gastric ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer that forms in the lining of the stomach.
    Location Peptic ulcers can occur in the stomach, duodenum, or other parts of the upper digestive tract. Gastric ulcers are located specifically in the lining of the stomach.
    Types Peptic ulcers are further classified into gastric ulcers (stomach) and duodenal ulcers (upper part of the small intestine). Gastric ulcers are one type of peptic ulcer, focusing on the stomach lining.
    Causes Peptic ulcers are caused by excess stomach acid, bacterial infection (Helicobacter pylori), and certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Gastric ulcers are caused by the same factors as peptic ulcers, including H. pylori infection, excessive stomach acid, and NSAIDs.
    Symptoms Symptoms of peptic ulcers generally include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. Symptoms of gastric ulcers are similar to those of peptic ulcers, but they may be more focused on the stomach area.
    Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, and tests such as endoscopy, barium swallow, or breath tests. Treatment usually includes medications to reduce stomach acid, antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection, and lifestyle changes. Diagnosis and treatment for gastric ulcers are similar to those for peptic ulcers, as they are both types of peptic ulcers.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.