What is a stomach ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is an open sore that forms in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum).

Symptoms

  • Burning stomach pain, often worse between meals or at night
  • Bloating and nausea
  • In severe cases, dark stools or vomiting blood
Seek urgent care Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools needs urgent medical attention.

Causes

The two most common causes are:

  • H. pylori bacterial infection
  • Long-term use of certain pain relievers (NSAIDs)

How is it diagnosed?

An endoscopy is the main way to confirm an ulcer and to test for H. pylori infection at the same time.

Treatment

  • Medicines to reduce stomach acid and allow the ulcer to heal
  • Antibiotics if H. pylori infection is found
  • Avoiding NSAIDs, alcohol, and smoking during healing

Most stomach ulcers heal well with the right treatment.

Frequently asked questions

H. pylori bacterial infection and long-term use of pain relievers like NSAIDs are responsible for most cases.

An endoscopy allows the doctor to see the ulcer directly and test for H. pylori infection.

Yes, most heal well with appropriate medicine, and treating any underlying H. pylori infection helps prevent recurrence.