Basel - Digestion Abstract 591, Vol. Mucosal adherent bacterial flora in chronic alcoholics was studied and compared to a control group referred for upper endoscopy, mainly for dyspepsia. 12 nonalcoholics, admitted for upper endoscopy mainly for dyspepsia, were chosen as a control group. Seven of these had used gastric acid inhibitors.
Alcoholics have an increased frequency of bacterial overgrowth in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
This may contribute to the common gastrointestinal symptoms.