Ibuprofen and Peptic Ulcers

Ibuprofen has been used for decades as a painkiller for arthritis, headaches, back pain and many other ailments. While it is underestimated for its painkiller power, it can have a negative effect on many. It is hard on the stomach and can leave many with ulcers when used over several weeks or months. The question that many have is, why did I think that ulcers were related to stress?

Stress certainly doesn't help when you already have acid in the stomach, but it isn't the cause of heartburn or ulcers for that matter. Ulcers are caused by an excessive use of what doctors refer to as NSAIDS, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. It comes in many forms, such as Motrin, Advil, and even Aleve. These work wonders for many, but over time it can lead to more problems. I personally had this problem, and didn't know why until it was really bad.

I was finding myself up at night, with a heartburn that couldn't be stopped and no clue why. I didn't feel stressed, and things were going pretty well. My stressors in life were good, and were merely work related. The heartburn then became severe nausea, then vomiting, then vomiting blood. Once I started vomiting blood, the doctor was alarmed and it was time to do what is called an EGD. This is a procedure that is commonly performed by a Gastroenterologist, and is a simple, painless test. They take a flexible, very thin lighted tube that has a tiny camera on the end, and they go down through your throat to take pictures and find out what is causing your symptoms. This could be ulcers, or even erosions on the esophagus. These are the end result of acid that is out of control and causing what look like third degree burns. These are painful!

According to Dr. Steve Martin, of Ohio GI and Liver Institute, a diet that is high in fat can also be a contributor. Fatty foods, or fried foods don't help at all, and can make matters worse when you already don't feel well. Coffee doesn't cause them, but it can irritate ulcers once they appear. French fries, hamburgers and other fried foods or red meat can irritate things as well. Trimming down the irritants like caffiene and even juices that are high in acid are a good idea, until the ulcers are healed, or at least until you have been on medicine to calm the acid down.

Many times your doctor may prescribe what is called Protonix. These medicines shut off your acid pumps so to speak, and prevent an overload of hydrochloric acid. It is critical to follow a lighter diet so that you can heal faster. Protonix is not meant for long term use, as it can dry up the hydrocholoric acid altogether. Those who tend to stay on medicines like Prevacid or Nexium for long periods of time, have a harder time with acid when it returns. Dr. Martin says that oftentimes, when the medicines stop, the acid can be even worse which creates a viscous cycle. The patient taking their own personal steps to wellness in addition to the medicines is crucial.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor right away. Never underestimate the power of Ibuprofen as a painkiller, or as an acid producer.

Dr. Stephen Martin
Ohio GI and Liver Institutde
Cincinnati, Ohio