10. Presence of Other Diseases: The Ripple Effect
Certain diseases and conditions can increase the risk of duodenal ulcers either due to their direct impact on the stomach and duodenum or because of the medications used for treatment.
Conditions like Crohn’s disease, wherein inflammation can occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, can predispose an individual to ulcers. Similarly, liver cirrhosis or chronic kidney disease can alter the gut’s environment, elevating ulcer risks.
Often, the medications prescribed for some chronic conditions can, as a side effect, increase ulcer risks. It’s not just about direct causation, but a mix of the disease’s impact and the medication’s side effects.
It’s seldom just one factor at play. The presence of another disease might be compounded by lifestyle factors like diet, smoking, or alcohol consumption. It’s this multifaceted interplay that often sets the stage for duodenal ulcers.(10)
