The duodenum is the first section of the small intestine. It reaches from the pylorus near the bottom of the stomach to the second part of the small intestine, or jejunum, and is considered to be part of the upper stomach. There are a few reasons for duodenum pain; however, one of the most common causes is an ulcer in the duodenum, or duodenal ulcer. Peptic ulcers will often form in the duodenum and can be the cause of quite severe pain. An ulcer is a sore inside or outside the body that fails to heal.
An obstruction in this part of the stomach can sometimes be the reason for duodenum pain. This can occur when an untreated peptic ulcer scars and narrows the stomach passageway. This occurrence is rare, however, because treatment usually heals these stubborn ulcers before reaching that critical condition. When it does happen, however, it can potentially block the passage of food out of the stomach. Some of the symptoms of this include indigestion and vomiting.
Part of the way the stomach and the duodenum serve to digest food is by releasing a flow of strong chemicals. This can also lead to indigestion problems and pain. Bloating and nausea can accompany this condition. Ulcers are usually the culprit, but sometimes there is no identifiable underlying reason. This is called functional indigestion and it can be made worse by drinking alcohol and smoking.
Indigestion and duodenum pain can also be made worse by stress and worry. If the condition is persistent and accompanied by vomiting and blood in the stool or vomit, it is recommended that the patient be examined by a doctor immediately. If pain in the left arm and jaw, as well shortness of breath and sweating are experienced at the same time as the indigestion and pain, these could also be symptoms of heart disease and should be seen by a doctor.
Another potential cause of duodenum pain can be helicobacter pylori, or H pylori. This is a bacteria found in the stomach and is sometimes associated with ulcers. The symptoms of H pylori can include a burning sensation in the region of the stomach and duodenum. Doctors will typically treat this condition with an antibiotic combination and it can take up to three weeks before the symptoms subside. With both H pylori and peptic ulcers, it is recommended that the patient avoids drinking coffee, smoking, alcohol, and nonsteroidal drugs such as aspirin.