Duodenal ulcer

Duodenal ulcers are sores that develop on the inner lining of the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine just beyond the stomach. This condition occurs when stomach acid damages the protective lining of the duodenum. It is often caused by an imbalance between digestive fluids in the stomach and duodenum. In Ayurveda, duodenal ulcers are considered an outcome of aggravated Pitta dosha, which leads to excessive heat and acid production, weakening the intestinal lining and causing sores. The Ayurvedic approach aims at balancing Pitta, promoting healing, and preventing further acid damage.

Our Experience

Patients Done

0 +

Symptoms:

Burning Pain in the Abdomen: A gnawing or burning pain, typically felt between meals or at night, in the upper abdomen.
Heartburn or Acid Reflux: A sour or burning sensation in the chest or throat.
Nausea and Vomiting: Often felt after meals, sometimes leading to vomiting of blood if the ulcer is severe.
Bloating and Indigestion: Feeling full or bloated after eating even small amounts of food.
Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Due to the pain and discomfort associated with eating.
Dark or Tarry Stools: This can be a sign of bleeding from the ulcer.

Causes:

Excessive Acid Production: High levels of stomach acid, often due to stress, spicy foods, or certain medications, can erode the duodenal lining.
Helicobacter Pylori Infection: This bacterium is a common cause of duodenal ulcers, as it weakens the stomach’s protective mucus layer, allowing acid to damage the lining.
Use of NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Regular use of these medications can irritate and inflame the lining of the stomach and duodenum, leading to ulcers.
Dietary Habits: Consuming excessive amounts of hot, spicy, and acidic foods aggravates Pitta dosha, increasing acid production and leading to ulcers.
Stress: Chronic stress and anxiety can disrupt digestive processes, increasing acid levels in the stomach and weakening the duodenum’s defense mechanisms.

Diagnosis:

Ayurvedic diagnosis involves understanding the patient’s dietary and lifestyle habits, emotional state, and dosha imbalance. Pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha) is often used to identify the predominance of aggravated Pitta and assess the digestive fire (Agni). In modern medicine, an endoscopy may be conducted to visualize the ulcer and confirm its presence.

Treatment:

Ayurvedic treatment for duodenal ulcers focuses on pacifying the Pitta dosha, promoting healing of the ulcer, and balancing the digestive fire. Treatments include:

Herbal Remedies:
- Shatavari: A cooling herb that soothes the stomach and duodenal lining and helps reduce acidity.
- Amlaki (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in antioxidants, it helps heal the mucous lining of the duodenum and neutralizes excess acid.
- Licorice Root (Yashtimadhu): Known for its mucilaginous properties, it forms a protective barrier over the ulcer and promotes healing.
- Guduchi: Helps in detoxifying and reducing inflammation, while also balancing Pitta dosha.
- Neem: Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe ulcers and reduce the bacterial load.
Dietary Adjustments: Following a Pitta-pacifying diet is key. Cooling, easily digestible foods such as milk, ghee, rice, and sweet fruits like pomegranate should be consumed. Hot, spicy, fried, and sour foods should be avoided as they aggravate Pitta and worsen symptoms.
Panchakarma Therapy: Detoxification therapies such as Virechana (purgation) help clear excess Pitta from the body and promote healing. Basti (medicated enema) can also be used to balance Vata and aid in recovery.
Lifestyle Changes: Reducing stress through regular meditation, yoga, and pranayama (breathing exercises) is crucial. These practices help calm the mind and regulate digestive fire. Maintaining regular meal timings, proper sleep, and hydration are also important.
Home Remedies: Consuming cold milk, aloe vera juice, or buttermilk can provide immediate relief from burning sensations. A paste of licorice root powder and honey can be consumed to soothe the ulcer.

Duodenal Ulcer

Symptoms:

Causes:

Diagnosis:

Treatment:

Diseases we Treat

Contact Us

For More Details Contact Us!