PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Four out of five cases of peptic ulcer disease are caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen. The remaining 20% of cases of peptic ulcer disease in the United States are associated with a bacterium called helicobacter pylori.
We can test for helicobacter pylori and treat it with medications. However, many people don't get treatment or even know they harbor it in their bodies. Detection and treatment are important, especially for people who have helicobacter pylori and take nonsteroidal medications.
These people are six times more likely to have bleeding ulcers. If you have chronic heartburn, fullness or general discomfort in the abdominal area, it makes sense to get it checked out.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
