Peptic ulcer disease

Peptic ulcer disease

Peptic ulcer disease is a condition that affects the lining of the stomach. The condition occurs as a result of the imbalance between gastric mucosal protective agents and destructive factors such as increased levels of acidic content in the abdomen. When the condition, occurs, it is usually a sign of the defect of the mucosal lining, especially within the digestive system that extends to the muscularis mucosa. According to Lanas & Chan (2017), the most common cause of this condition is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which is known to colonize abdominal walls thereby causing inflammation. The condition may also be exacerbated by the inability of mucosal cells to secret enough bicarbonates needed to neutralize the high acidic content. On the other hand, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition that is characterized by the backflow of gastric juices from the stomach into the esophagus (Clarrett & Hachem, 2018). It generally occurs as a result of changes in reflux exposure, epithelial resistance, and visceral sensitivity. This exposure causes injury of the esophagus thereby causing symptoms of the condition (Clarrett & Hachem, 2018). Known symptoms of the disease include sore throat, heartburn, belching, regurgitation and lower back pain in the upper abdomen (Clarrett & Hachem, 2018). Therefore, while the main underlying issue between the two conditions is acid, peptic ulcer disease is caused by inflammation of the mucosal lining by H. pylori, while GERD generally occurs due to changes in exposure to reflux within the esophagus (Clarrett & Hachem, 2018). Based on the patients daily behaviors and symptoms, I believe the Patient has Peptic Ulcer Disease.

Clarrett, D. M., & Hachem, C. (2018). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Missouri Medicine, 115(3), 214.

Lanas, A., & Chan, F. K. (2017). Peptic ulcer disease. The Lancet, 390(10094), 613-624.