Peptic ulcer disease, often known as PUD, is a gastrointestinal inflammation that can afflict people of any age, including seniors. This can be a very painful condition, requiring medical intervention and the aid of personal care at home providers. Early detection and efficient management are essential to help seniors get the help they need. This means that loved ones and seniors should understand PUD, the symptoms, and the available treatment choices.
What Is Peptic Ulcer Disease?
Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) is when the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine has open sores or ulcers. Most gastric ulcers can heal in a few weeks to a few months with the help of a doctor. But if ulcers aren’t treated, they can cause problems like bleeding, perforation (a hole in the digestive system), or blockage. Because of this, it is important to see a doctor if you have signs of peptic ulcer disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcer disease can manifest in seniors with various signs and symptoms, some of which may be difficult to spot or easily ignored. Consistent support with personal care at home can help watch for these signs and ensure seniors get the care they need.
Typically issues to look for are listed below.
Pain in the abdomen: Peptic ulcer patients in their senior years frequently complain of gnawing or burning pain in the upper abdomen, typically between the breastbone and the navel. The pain may come and go or be there all the time. Its intensity may range from minor to severe.
Indigestion: Indigestion is a common symptom among seniors who suffer from peptic ulcers. They may experience bloating, indigestion, or a feeling of fullness after only consuming a modest amount of food.
Nausea and vomiting: Seniors with peptic ulcers may experience either nausea or vomiting or both of these symptoms. If the vomiting is accompanied by blood or looks like coffee grounds, this could be a sign of a severe medical condition.
Loss of appetite and weight loss: Seniors who suffer from peptic ulcer disease may experience a loss of appetite, which may ultimately result in unexpected weight loss during the course of their sickness.
Treatment Options For Peptic Ulcer Disease with Personal Care at Home Assistance
The treatment goals when dealing with peptic ulcer disease are to reduce symptoms, promote healing of the ulcers, and prevent complications. This might be done with medication that lowers the production of stomach acid to encourage ulcer healing or antibiotics if its thought there is an infection.
Personal care at home aides and loved ones can encourage seniors to modify their lifestyle as well, avoiding foods that might be too spicy, decreasing smoking and alcohol consumption, or adopting behaviors that lower stress levels.
Endoscopy is sometimes necessary for elderly patients who suffer from peptic ulcers. This treatment allows the physician to see the ulcer and create a plan. If significant bleeding, perforation, or obstruction occurs, physicians will discuss surgical options to alleviate the issue.
Peptic ulcer disease can be a significant health problem for seniors, producing discomfort as well as the possibility of complications. With help from personal care at home and with loved ones, seniors can get assistance before PUD becomes too harmful.
Source:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10393735/#:~:text=Peptic%2Dulcer%20disease%20causes%20significant,in%20the%20development%20of%20ulcers.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peptic-ulcer/symptoms-causes/syc-20354223
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10350-peptic-ulcer-disease
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home Services in Nolensville TN please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (615) 307-4509
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Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
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