A peptic ulcer is a hole in the gut lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus. A peptic ulcer of the stomach is also called gastric ulcer; of the duodenum, a duodenal ulcer; and of the esophagus, an esophageal ulcer. An ulcer occurs when the lining of these organs is corroded by the acidic digestive juices which are secreted by the stomach cells. Peptic ulcer disease is common, affecting millions of people yearly. Recent medical advances have increased our understanding of ulcer formation. Improved and expanded treatment options are now available.

It is usually caused by a bacterial infection of Helicobacter pylori. The stomach produces hydrochloric acid and enzymes, including pepsin, that break down and digest food. A mucus layer coats the stomach and protects it from the acid. Prostaglandins, hormone-like substances involved in muscle contraction and the inflammation response, also aid in protecting the lining. When these defenses are not performing their job properly, acid and pepsin eat away at the lining, forming an open sore called an ulcer.

Ayurvedic term for peptic ulcer, “Parinam shool”, is a disorder caused by the Agni bhootha.

Causes of peptic ulcers:

The underlying process that results in Peptic ulcer formation is excess of acid production in the stomach and damage to the protective barrier inside the stomach.

For many years, excess acid was believed to be the major cause of ulcer disease. Accordingly, treatment emphasis was on neutralizing and inhibiting the secretion of stomach acid. While acid is still considered significant in ulcer formation, the leading cause of ulcer disease is currently believed to be infection of the stomach by a bacteria named Helicobacter pylori.

The other factors:

• Intake of spicy and hot foods
  
• Fasting
• Irregular eating
• Alcohol consumption
• Stress and anxiety
  
• Smoking
• Excessive use of pain killers like aspirin, ibuprofen etc
  
• Excessive intake of tea and coffee