Pain without ulcer

Many assume any type of abdominal pain or burning sensation is peptic ulcer.

Peptic ulcer is generally an inflammation or open sores developed inside or on the upper portion of the stomach. The sore is caused when acid in the digestive tracts eats the inner surface of the stomach. The sore or ulcer can be detected by endoscopy.

However, the condition where a patient suffers from acute stomach pain, uneasiness, nausea, bloating, burning sensation in the stomach without haing peptic ulcer, is called non ulcer dyspepsia. It is relieved by taking antacids.

Non ulcer dyspepsia occurs mostly among mid-aged women.

Anxiety, mental stress, tension, depression, painful childhood memories and smoking accelerate the risk of dyspepsia.

Physicians confirm whether there is any symptom of ulcer by blood test and endoscopy.

Dyspepsia is treated with the same medication  of gastric such as antacid. Also, physicians recommend medications for mental stress and depression.The patients also can have a significant role in controlling the condition. Such as, : eat less, eat often. Don’t overeat in one go. Don’t stay on an empty stomach for long either.  : Stay away from oily and spicy foods and also avoid caffeine.

: Eat cereal and puffed rice for the breakfast. Eat fruits daily.

: Do not go to bed immediately shortly after dinner. Do not eater dinner late.

: Try yoga, relaxing or meditation to keep your mind free. Seek help from a psychiatrist, in needed.

: Chew dried ginger or peppermint. It helps.

• This piece originally published in Prothom Alo print edition has been rewritten in English by Farjana Liakat