Peptic ulcer disease: Bruce Springsteen diagnosis brings to light all-too-common debilitating health issue
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a condition in which the stomach lining or the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, becomes infected with painful sores or ulcers.
The digestive system's protective layer is ravaged by a bacterial infection in many cases of peptic ulcer disease.
Musical legend Bruce Springsteen has reportedly announced he will once more take a break from touring while being treated for "symptoms of peptic ulcer disease."
As per the Daily Mail, the 73-year-old music icon was left "heartbroken" as he was forced to cancel the rest of his September tour dates due to his health concerns.
One in 10 people may develop peptic ulcer disease
Peptic ulcers are open sores that form on the lining of the stomach and the upper part of your small intestine. The most prevalent symptom of peptic ulcer is stomach pain, as per the Cleveland Clinic.
The stomach lining is shielded by a thick coating of mucus that protects it from the effects of the digestive juices.
The protective layer can, however, be weakened by various factors, allowing the digestive juices to harm the tissue. One on 10 people may develop peptic ulcer disease.
What causes peptic ulcer disease?
NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) usage, family history of ulcers, illnesses including liver, renal, or lung disease, regular alcohol consumption and smoking can put a person at risk of developing an ulcer.
The bacteria helicobacter pylori (H pylori) infection and long-term usage of NSAIDs, a group of medications used to relieve pain such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB and other brands) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) are the two main causes of peptic ulcers.
Another rare disorder, the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (gastrinoma), can also cause PUD. This disorder causes a tumor of cells that produce acid in the digestive tract.
These tumors may or may not be malignant. The acid that is produced in excess by the cells affects the stomach lining.
What are the symptoms of peptic ulcer disease?
A burning sensation in the stomach is the most common symptom of peptic ulcer disease. Both stomach acids and an empty stomach exacerbate the pain.
Some individuals who have ulcers show no symptoms. However, symptoms of an ulcer can include heartburn, bloating, difficulty breathing, black or tarry stools and pain that subsides momentarily after eating or taking an antacid.
Vomiting or vomiting blood, which may be red or black and dark blood in stools are other symptoms of peptic ulcer disease.
How to treat peptic ulcers?
Peptic ulcer treatment depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, treatment includes eradicating the H pylori bacterium, if present.
It also consists of minimizing the use of NSAIDs and aiding in the healing of ulcers using medicines, such as Proton pump inhibitors (PPI), Histamine receptor blockers (H2 blockers) and antibiotics, per the Mayo Clinic.
Bruce Springsteen treated for PUD symptoms
According to a statement posted on Springsteen's social media accounts on Wednesday, September 6, the musician was "being treated for symptoms of peptic ulcer disease."
The remaining Springsteen and The E Street Band concerts scheduled for September have been postponed, per the announcement, due to his health issues and the "decision of his medical advisors."
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Springsteen message read, "Over here on E Street, we’re heartbroken to have to postpone these shows."
It further stated, "First, apologies to our fabulous Philly fans who we missed a few weeks ago. We’ll be back to pick these shows up and then some."
"Thank you for your understanding and support. We’ve been having a blast at our US shows and we’re looking forward to more great times. We’ll be back soon," the post added.
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Beginning on September 7 in Syracuse and ending on September 29 at Nationals Park in Washington, DC, Springsteen and The E Street Band had nine gigs planned for September.
On September 1, he performed at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.