Overview

Peptic ulcer disease is a condition characterised by open sores or ulcers that develop on the inner lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers) or the upper part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers). Factors such as infection with H. pylori bacteria, excessive stomach acid, or certain medications typically cause it. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, indigestion, and discomfort. Treatment often involves medications to reduce stomach acid and antibiotics for bacterial infections.

Even though peptic ulcers are far more prevalent in adults, they can occur in kids of any age. If left untreated, these ulcers can lead to significant consequences -

Blood vessels may be injured and cause bleeding as the lining of the stomach or duodenal wall erodes.
A hole may have occasionally worn through the stomach or duodenum's wall, allowing microbes and partly digested food to leak into the sterile abdominal cavity (peritoneum).
Narrowing and obstruction: Stomach ulcers near the duodenal attachment point can result in swelling and scarring, which can shut or narrow the intestinal entrance.

Causes of Peptic Ulcers in Children

Peptic ulcers in children are primarily caused by one of the following factors:

Pylori Infection: The most common cause of peptic ulcers is the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterium. It can weaken the protective mucous lining of the stomach and duodenum, making them more susceptible to damage from stomach acid.
Excessive Stomach Acid: An overproduction of stomach acid can damage the stomach lining or duodenum, contributing to ulcer formation.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Long-term NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen can irritate and erode the stomach's lining, leading to ulcers.
Other Factors: Less common causes include rare conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and physical injury, such as blunt trauma or radiation therapy to the abdomen.

Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers in Children

Peptic ulcers in children can manifest with various symptoms, which may differ from those in adults. Common symptoms of peptic ulcers in children include

Abdominal Pain: Children may experience a dull, burning, or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often between meals or at night.
Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea and occasional vomiting, sometimes containing blood, can occur.
Bloating or Discomfort: A feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen may be present.
Loss of Appetite: A decreased appetite and reluctance to eat due to pain or discomfort.
Weight Loss: Chronic ulcers can lead to unintended weight loss in children.
Poor Growth: Chronic ulcers can sometimes affect a child's growth and development.
Blood in Stools: Rarely, peptic ulcers can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, resulting in blood in the stool, which may appear dark or tarry.

Treatment of Peptic Ulcers in Kids

For those with stomach or duodenal ulcers, several therapeutic options are available. In the past, doctors urged parents to steer clear of giving their kids ulcer-causing meals like hot, fatty, or acidic foods. However, it is now understood that a bland diet is unhelpful in preventing or curing ulcers. For the majority of children with ulcers, no specific diet is beneficial.

Medications:

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce stomach acid production and help promote healing of the ulcer. They are often prescribed to children with peptic ulcers.
Antacids or H2 Blockers: These medications may be used to provide immediate relief from symptoms by neutralising stomach acid or reducing its production.
Antibiotics: If the peptic ulcer is caused by an H. pylori infection, antibiotics are prescribed to eradicate the bacteria.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Dietary Changes: Encourage your child to eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stomach irritation. Avoid spicy, acidic, or extremely hot or cold foods that may exacerbate symptoms.
Stress Reduction: Stress can worsen ulcer symptoms, so help your child manage stress through relaxation techniques, hobbies, or counselling.
Avoid NSAIDs: If NSAIDs contribute to the ulcer, consult the healthcare provider for alternatives.
Regular Follow-up: Children with peptic ulcers need regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor progress and adjust treatment.
Hydration: Ensure your child stays well-hydrated, especially if there is vomiting or diarrhoea due to the ulcer.
Monitoring for Complications: In severe cases or if there is gastrointestinal bleeding, hospitalisation and monitoring may be necessary.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Gastroenterology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Contrary to popular opinion, stress or your diet are not the main causes of ulcers. Bacteria are typically the culprit. By using antibiotics and other drugs, doctors can treat the bacterium.

The greatest thing you can do for your health is to speak with your doctor if you've been using a lot of antacids lately, are continuously nibbling to ease a gnawing stomach ache or exhibit any other symptoms of an ulcer. In a few weeks, with treatment, an ulcer can be cured.

FAQs

Q. What should those who have ulcers eat?
A. No meal has been shown to have a good or negative effect on ulcers. On the other hand, eating a balanced diet and getting adequate rest and exercise are beneficial for your general health.

Q. Is it safe to take antacids?
A. Antacids provide momentary relief from ulcer symptoms. They may, however, reduce the efficiency of prescription treatments. If you're having treatment, ask your doctor if taking antacids is okay.

Q. What are the causes of peptic ulcer diseases?
A. Peptic ulcer disease in children can arise from factors like Helicobacter pylori infection, NSAID usage, genetic predisposition, and stress. Less commonly, conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, smoking, and physical injury may contribute. Early diagnosis and tailored treatment are essential to manage this condition in paediatric populations.

Q. How to take care of peptic ulcer disease in children?
A. To care for a child with peptic ulcer disease: consult a paediatrician, follow prescribed medications (such as proton pump inhibitors or antibiotics for H. pylori), adjust their diet to minimise spicy or acidic foods, manage stress, and monitor their progress with regular medical check-ups. Lifestyle changes are essential for healing and preventing relapses.

Reference links:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10350-peptic-ulcer-disease
https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-in/home/children-s-health-issues/digestive-disorders-in-children/peptic-ulcer-in-children
https://www.paediatricsandchildhealthjournal.co.uk/article/S1751-7222(10)00093-4/fulltext