Denis - sorry to hear. Fortunately, I've never had an ulcer. At first I thought the stress of diagnosis may have contributed or caused your ulcer but a quick Google set me straight (quick copy 'n paste follows for others who thought the same). I couldn't agree more on the 'hurry up and wait' frustration, it's been over 6mo. since I was referred to the URO and my treatments finally start next week. I'm glad you are making progress on that decision, I find your recent posts thought provoking and much more articulate than I can muster. It's good to see them and the conversation they provoke. Thanks.
Ask the Experts said...
What role does stress play in the formation of ulcers?
Doctor's response:
Peptic ulcers (occurring in the lining of the stomach or the part of the small intestine called the duodenum) were formerly thought to be caused by lifestyle stress, coffee consumption, or spicy foods. But it is now known that about 90% of peptic ulcers are actually caused by a bacterial infection that can usually be cured.
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) was established as the leading cause of peptic ulcers in the early 1980s. It was also found to cause gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining). Some people can be infected with H. pylori and never develop an ulcer or show any symptoms of the infection. In other people, the organism may persist for years before any symptoms develop. It is not known why some people develop symptoms of the infection and others do not. Treatment of H. pylori infection is relatively simple and can lead to healing in a matter of weeks.
Medically reviewed by Robert Bargar, MD; Board Certification in Public Health & General Preventive Medicine
REFERENCE:
"Peptic ulcer disease: Genetic, environmental, and psychological risk factors and pathogenesis"
UpToDate.com