Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are open sores that form on the stomach lining or the upper portion of the small intestine. They can be quite painful and interrupt daily living, especially for seniors, whose age-related health vulnerabilities frequently intensify the problem. With the support of family and elder care, however, seniors can gain knowledge about stomach ulcers and take steps to better manage them and avoid complications.
Causes of Stomach Ulcers in Seniors
The fundamental causes of stomach ulcers are the same across all age groups, but seniors are often dealing with other factors at the same time, which may make them more susceptible. Not only that but since seniors have lived longer, they’ve also had more exposure to H. pylori, which is a common bacterial infection that damages the protective mucus lining of the stomach. That damage allows stomach acid to cause ulcers. Other factors that make stomach ulcers more likely in seniors include the following:
- Frequent Use of NSAIDs: Seniors regularly use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin, to treat arthritis, chronic pain, and cardiovascular disease. However, long-term use can damage the stomach lining, raising the risk of ulcers.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, heavy alcohol intake, and stress are all linked to stomach ulcers. Seniors who have had prolonged exposure to these risk factors may be at a higher risk.
- Age-related Changes: Seniors’ reduced production of protective stomach mucus and slower healing processes make them especially vulnerable to ulcer development and consequences.
Recognizing the Common Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers
Seniors may have a variety of symptoms, some of which are similar to other gastrointestinal diseases. Because of this, it’s important that they, elder care, and family members be on the lookout for those symptoms and monitor them appropriately so any concerns can be addressed by the health care team. Key symptoms to look for include:
- Abdominal Pain
- Indigestion
- Appetite changes
- Dark or Bloody Stools
- Unintentional Weight Loss
Complications and Risks for Seniors
Stomach ulcers can cause serious consequences if not treated properly, particularly in seniors, which is another reason why consistent monitoring by their support team is key. Some of the complications and risks include internal bleeding, perforation—which is uncommon but potentially fatal—and obstruction of the digestive tract due to scarring from repeated ulcers.
Managing and Preventing Stomach Ulcers
The good news is that effective treatment and preventive care can dramatically improve seniors’ quality of life. For instance, the medical team may prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers to control stomach acid production. If H. pylori is present, antibiotics might also be required. Additionally, to promote digestive health, seniors should avoid smoking, restrict alcohol use, and eat a well-balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Elder care can help with this, offering tips for healthy meal planning, prepping foods, or even assisting seniors with cooking. Finally, it’s also important to monitor NSAID use and encourage seniors to make and keep routine check-ups with their medical team.
Stomach ulcers can have a severe influence on seniors’ health and well-being if not treated properly. Seniors, working with elder care and their support team, can effectively manage this condition and avoid consequences by learning about the risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and implementing proactive treatment strategies.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Elder Care in Carthage, MO, please contact the caring staff at Adelmo Family Care today at (417) 206-4576
Adelmo Family Care provides exceptional home and facility care for seniors, disabled adults, and their families in Joplin, Webb City, Carthage, Duquesne, Neosho, Carl Junction, Lamar, Newton County, MO, Jasper County, MO, Pittsburg, KS, Riverton, KS, Crawford County, KS, Cherokee County, KS, and surrounding areas.
To provide the safest and most qualified caregivers, John felt it was important to properly screen and train caregivers before they were invited into the homes of the families being care for.No caregiver is introduced to a client before being taught the Adelmo Standard.
Adelmo is German for Noble Protector, a name that projects what Adelmo Family Care strives to be. It is our goal to protect our elderly from having to move somewhere they do not want to go, while remaining safe, secure and independent.
Care is our Product and Independence is our Goal.We are there for you when you need to have some help to continue to live independently, at your direction, in your home. We will work with you to get you as fit as possible so you may become completely independent once again, if at all possible.
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