Peptic Ulcer Disease in Children
When a child is diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease (PUD), it can be a worrying time for the whole family. At RWJBarnabas Health, our team of pediatric gastroenterology experts is dedicated to providing compassionate, child-focused care to help your little one feel better.
What Is Pediatric Peptic Ulcer Disease?
Peptic ulcer disease in children occurs when open sores develop in the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). These ulcers can be thought of as small "potholes" in the protective lining of your digestive tract.
While they can cause significant discomfort, the good news is that most peptic ulcers can be successfully managed and healed with proper care and treatment. While less common in children than in adults, these ulcers can cause significant discomfort and require specialized care.
Types of Pediatric Peptic Ulcer Disease We Treat
At RWJBarnabas Health, we specialize in treating two main types of peptic ulcers in children:
- Gastric ulcers. These ulcers form in the lining of the stomach.
- Duodenal ulcers. These ulcers develop in the upper part of the small intestine.
Both types of ulcers can cause similar symptoms, but their exact location can influence the specific treatment approach. Our expert team is skilled in diagnosing and treating gastric and duodenal ulcers, tailoring our care to your needs.
Pediatric Peptic Ulcer Disease Causes
In the past, it was commonly believed that emotional stress and diet were the primary causes of peptic ulcers. However, modern research has revealed that this is not the case. In children, the most common causes of peptic ulcers are:
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. These bacteria can weaken the protective mucus layer of the stomach and duodenum.
- Medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can sometimes cause ulcers in children, especially if used frequently.
- Stress. Severe physical stress (such as from burns or head trauma) can sometimes lead to ulcers in children.
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. This rare condition causes tumors that increase stomach acid production.
Pediatric Peptic Ulcer Disease Symptoms
Common peptic ulcer symptoms in children include:
- Abdominal pain, often in the upper middle part of the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Unintended weight loss
In some cases, more severe symptoms may occur:
- Blood in stools or vomit
- Fatigue due to anemia (from blood loss)
If your child experiences sudden, severe abdominal pain, fever, or symptoms of shock, seek immediate medical attention, as these could indicate a perforated ulcer, which is a medical emergency.
Pediatric Peptic Ulcer Disease Diagnosis
At RWJBarnabas Health, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately identify peptic ulcers.
An upper endoscopy is often the most definitive test, allowing us to view the ulcer directly and take biopsies if needed. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This allows us to visually identify ulcers and take small tissue samples (biopsies) to test for H. pylori infection or other abnormalities.
Our experienced team will determine the best diagnostic approach based on your child’s symptoms and medical history.
Pediatric Peptic Ulcer Disease Treatments
Treatment for children with peptic ulcers typically involves:
- Medications to reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- Antibiotics if H. pylori infection is present
- Protective medications to coat the stomach lining
- Avoiding NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
Our goal is to heal your child's ulcer and prevent future ulcers from forming. We'll work with you and your child to create an effective, easy-to-follow treatment plan.
Help for Peptic Ulcer Disease
If your child is experiencing persistent stomach pain or other symptoms of peptic ulcers, don't wait. Contact RWJBarnabas Health today to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatric gastroenterology specialists. Together, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan to help your child feel better and get back to the important business of being a kid.