Stomach ulcers, or peptic ulcers, are caused by the wearing of the intestinal mucosal lining and can cause extreme pain. Some common symptoms of stomach ulcers are vomiting, heartburn, nausea, fatigue, chest pain, loss of weight and belching. These symptoms can be the result of another medical problem, so it is important that you identify the source of your medical ailments correctly.

Upper GI series

An upper GI series is a special x-ray that can detect ulcers. The patient will swallow a chalky substance to create contrast in the intestines that will help identify an ulcer if one does exist. This process is also referred to as a "barium swallow" since the chalky substance contains barium.

Endoscopy

A patient can also undergo an endoscopy. During this procedure, a small camera attached to a thin wire is guided down the patient's throat so the doctor can view the intestinal lining. A mild sedative will be given during this procedure.

Biopsy

A patient can also have a biopsy taken of his intestinal tissue to test for an ulcer. This procedure is usually done in conjunction with an endoscopy. A small piece of intestinal tissue will be removed and taken to a laboratory for testing.

Blood test

Another way to test for an ulcer is to detect bacteria in the body. An ulcer will cause H plyori bacteria to gather in the affected area. The blood test will detect a high level of antibodies the body uses to fight of bacterial infections. The blood test is one of the easiest and inexpensive methods of testing for an stomach ulcer.

Breath test

A breath test does exist that can help detect a stomach ulcer and is more reliable than the blood test. A special liquid is given to the patient that the H plyori bacteria will break down, thereby increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood. A high carbon dioxide reading will give a positive result for the existence of a stomach ulcer.

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Peptic Ulcers

Stomach Ulcer Symptoms

Stomach Ulcers

procedure of camera down the throat