At what age can one develop a gastric ulcer?

Gastric Ulcer

Gastric ulcers typically occur in individuals aged 40-60. However, with the acceleration of life pace, changes in dietary habits, and the rising infection rate of Helicobacter pylori, the occurrence of gastric ulcers is gradually shifting towards younger individuals.

Common Causes

1. Poor lifestyle habits: such as long-term smoking and alcohol consumption, intake of spicy and irritating foods, etc.;
2. Medication factors: prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids, etc., can damage the gastric mucosa and induce gastric ulcers;
3. Stress: excessive emotional fluctuations or severe mental trauma can lead to increased gastric acid secretion, thereby triggering gastric ulcers;
4. Helicobacter pylori infection: currently considered one of the primary causes, transmitted through close contact between individuals, as well as through shared utensils, kissing, and other means. Under the influence of the pathogen, infected individuals may experience reduced gastric mucus, resulting in gastric mucosal erosion and bleeding, which can further develop into gastric ulcers.

Treatment Methods

1. Medication: Commonly used acid suppressants include Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules and Rabeprazole Sodium Enteric-coated Tablets, which can inhibit gastric acid secretion and alleviate symptoms. H2 receptor blockers such as Famotidine Tablets and Ranitidine Hydrochloride Capsules also serve a similar purpose. Additionally, medications that protect the gastric mucosa, like Magnesium Aluminum Carbonate Chewable Tablets and Sucralfate Suspension, can promote the repair of damaged gastric mucosa. In cases of Helicobacter pylori infection, quadruple therapy consisting of two antibiotics, a bismuth salt, and a proton pump inhibitor is prescribed for radical treatment.
2. Surgical treatment: For severe cases, surgical intervention should be considered alongside active medication, such as endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection.
Furthermore, daily life adjustments include modifying dietary structure to avoid spicy and irritating foods like chili, ginger, and garlic, to prevent worsening of existing conditions.