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Ulcer - an infectious disease, according to scientists
Last reviewed: 16.10.2021
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Recently, more and more gastroenterologists have been engaged in research into diseases such as ulcer and gastritis. Experts from the UK claim that the ulcer is an infectious disease and, in connection with this, has the property of being transmitted by airborne droplets, and also through kisses. The opinion of the Ukrainian doctors about this issue is divided: some doctors are sure that the ulcer can only be transmitted through cutlery, the rest agree with the English colleagues and confirmed that the bacterium that causes the stomach ulcer can be transmitted through saliva.
Previously, scientists were sure that an ulcer is either a hereditary disease or a disease that affects people with diseases of the nervous system, smokers, alcohol drinkers on an empty stomach. Recent studies show that the gastric ulcer, like the previous gastritis, is an infectious disease that anyone can get sick of.
The first studies of gastric microflora in patients with ulcers were carried out more than twenty years ago, when physicians from Australia discovered an unknown microorganism in the patient's gastric mucosa. At that time, several scientists were laughed at, even after they managed to artificially grow the found microorganism, called Helicobacter pylori.
Seasonal exacerbations have also been observed in patients with gastric ulcer. Physicians, looking at the statistics, found that the greatest number of complaints occur in the fall and spring periods. Previously, it was widely believed that the ulcer is a hereditary disease. In connection with the results of recent research, the scientists concluded that the spread of this disease within the family is not due to related ties and genetic characteristics, but to the fact that the bacterium Helicobacter pylori can be transmitted through common cutlery, bath towels, kisses. Doctors advise paying special attention to regular examinations to those people in whose families there are people suffering from stomach ulcers. Also, there is a risk of contracting a test if the equipment is poorly sterilized.
Most people who are forced to maintain close contact with patients, there are high risks of getting a ulcer. The bacterium that provokes the disease can stay in the body for a long time without manifesting itself. Symptoms of the disease can be detected with a significant decrease in immunity, nervous disorders, alcohol abuse or fasting cigarettes.
Such drugs as aspirin and paracetamol can also provoke the occurrence of a stomach ulcer or gastritis. Too spicy food, unusual for daily use, nervous breakdown, lack of sleep can also lead to the disease.
For accurate diagnosis, doctors conduct a breath test that can determine the presence of bacteria that cause an ulcer in the body. If the result is positive, the patient is prescribed medications that cause a decrease in the acidity of the stomach. Treatment is short-lived and guarantees 95% recovery of normal gastric microflora.