Children can get stomach ulcers too

It is often widely thought that stomach ulcers are a problem of adults and not children. However, increasing medical evidence and diagnostic accuracy show that ulcers too occur in children. Contrary to another earlier belief that these ulcers were caused by either living with intensive stress or frequently eating spicy foods, we now know that a bacteria, found in the gut, called Helicobacter pylori is indeed the cause of peptic ulcers. Helicobacter pylori bacteria have been found to cause peptic ulcers on a higher rate in adults as compared to children. The duodenum, the part of the gut just below the stomach is the commonest site for Helicobacter pylori ulceration. The duodenal ulcers are commoner in adults, while stomach/gastric ulcers occur more commonly in children.

Some medical conditions can contribute to the development of peptic ulcers in children. For example, children with severe burns may develop ulcers due to the stress of their injuries. The use of some types of medicines, especially drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen can make the stomach vulnerable to the harmful effects of acid and pepsin and may contribute to the development of ulcers.

The signs and symptoms for childhood ulcers are similar to those found in other common childhood illnesses. They include burning pain in the abdomen between the breastbone and the belly button, nausea, vomiting, feeding difficulties, loss of appetite, weight loss and sometimes blood in vomit or bowel movements.  If the doctor suspects ulceration, he may do tests on blood, stool and some other radiological investigations to confirm the diagnosis. If the ulcer is Helicobacter pylori — related, the child’s doctor will prescribe antibiotics with an additional set of stomach — acid reducing medications. These antibiotics need to be taken as directed by the child’s doctor, finishing the medication even if the symptoms disappear early.  If the ulcer is medication—related, use of the offending drug will be discontinued, and acid-reducing medications prescribed. Usually, big dietary restrictions are not advised unless certain foods cause problems for the child, though caffeine containing foods and beverages may be avoided.

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