Ulcers are not particularly a disease of the top executive; people in many kinds of jobs suffer from them.
A gastric or duodenal ulcer causes a breakdown of the lining of the stomach or intestine. But as far as the patient is concerned he has indigestion, pain or discomfort. Some form of sensible diet, and eating little and often, plus the use of a simple antacid will often be treatment enough.
Occasionally surgery is necessary either as an emergency operation, for example, where an ulcer has perforated, or where drugs have failed to help and a patient's symptoms continue.
In tonight's programme the Consultant Physician discusses ulcers with a specialist in the subject, a General Practitioner and a Professor of Surgery.
(Colour)