Acid Peptic Disease

Description

Introduction

Acid peptic disease – commonly called APD – includes a number of conditions. All these conditions are the result of damage from acid and peptic activity in gastric secretions. APD occurs when the acid starts irritating the inner cells (mucosal layer) of the stomach. Acid peptic diseases mostly affect the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

Causes

Acid peptic diseases are caused by the excessive presence of acid and pepsin. The two main types of acid peptic diseases are gastric and duodenal ulcer. However, they can also occur at the GJ Stoma, lower end of oesophagus, and Meckel’s diverticulum. According to duration and complexity of symptoms they can be acute or chronic.

The main causes are:

Smoking

Alcohol

Foods

Citrus or acidic fruits

Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol

Greasy, fatty, spicy, and fried foods

Garlic, onions, and mint flavourings

Drugs, such as aspirin and types of steroids

Helicobacter pylori

Symptoms:

A digestive function disorder, acid peptic disease is characterised by dyspepsia (discomfort, heartburn, or nausea). However, the classic symptom of peptic ulcer disease, is defined as pain centered in the upper abdomen or discomfort characterised by fullness, bloating, distention, or nausea. Factors contributing to acid peptic disorder Acid peptic disorder results when the balance between the aggressive and defensive factors in the gastro duodenal mucosa is disrupted. This balance could be disrupted by factors such as H pylori infection, NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug), and acid secretory abnormalities. A defect in bicarbonate production and acid neutralisation in the duodenal bulb is also a potent cause.