Now, however, most experts agree the H. pylori bacteria is the primary cause of peptic ulcers in adults. When studies and experience concluded that children also can suffer from ulcers, it was found that, unlike ulcers occurring in adults, H. pylori wasn't seen as the culprit in most cases of childhood ulcers. Some doctors make the distinction between duodenal ulcers, which are commonly associated with H. pylori infection, and gastric ulcers, which may stem from other causes and appear to be the most common form of peptic ulcer to occur in children.
Certain medical conditions can contribute to the development of peptic ulcers in children. For example, children with severe burns may develop ulcers secondary to the stress of their injuries. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, can make the stomach vulnerable to the harmful effects of acid and pepsin and may contribute to the development of ulcers.
Signs and Symptoms of Ulcers in Children
The following symptoms are also common with many other childhood illnesses, and not ulcers, but should be discussed with the child's doctor for a definite diagnosis.
Burning pain in the abdomen between the Bosom bone and the belly button
Nausea
Vomiting
Feeding difficulties
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Blood in vomit or bowel movements
Diagnosing Ulcers in Children
The following tests are most commonly used to diagnose ulcers:
Upper endoscopy
Barium X-rays
If an ulcer is found, the doctor will then test for H. pylori. While H. pylori usually isn't the cause of ulcers in children, it needs to be ruled out as a cause since the treatment for an ulcer caused by H. pylori is different from the treatment for an ulcer caused by NSAIDs.
Treatment of Ulcers in Children
If the ulcer is H.pylori-related, the child's doctor will prescribe antibiotics. 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, the child's doctor will advise you to not give your child NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, or any medications containing ibuprofen or aspirin.
The child's doctor will most likely prescribe acid-reducing medications. These should be given as prescribed by the doctor.
Most doctors won't recommend big dietary restrictions unless certain foods cause problems for the child. There are some foods, though, that stimulate the production of acid in the stomach and can make an ulcer worse. These include any foods and beverages that contain caffeine, such as sodas and chocolate.
Emergency Situations
You should call your child's doctor immediately if your child has any of these symptoms:
Sudden and persistent pain in the belly
Blood in bowel movements (the bowel movement will appear black or tarry)
Blood in vomit
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
These symptoms can indicate the following serious problems:
Perforation. This is when an ulcer becomes too deep and breaks through the stomach or duodenal wall.
Bleeding. This is when stomach acid or an ulcer breaks a blood vessel.
Obstruction. This is when an ulcer will block food and it can't pass through to the intestines.
Ulcers in children can be an upsetting experience for parents and child, but with timely and proper treatment, almost all ulcers can be cured.
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