OverviewPeptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain. Show
Peptic ulcers include:
The most common causes of peptic ulcers are infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). Stress and spicy foods do not cause peptic ulcers. However, they can make your symptoms worse. Symptoms
The most common peptic ulcer symptom is burning stomach pain. Stomach acid makes the pain worse, as does having an empty stomach. The pain can often be relieved by eating certain foods that buffer stomach acid or by taking an acid-reducing medication, but then it may come back. The pain may be worse between meals and at night. Many people with peptic ulcers don't even have symptoms. Less often, ulcers may cause severe signs or symptoms such as:
When to see a doctorSee your doctor if you have the severe signs or symptoms listed above. Also see your doctor if over-the-counter antacids and acid blockers relieve your pain but the pain returns. Subscribe for free and receive your in-depth guide to digestive health, plus the latest on health innovations and news. You can unsubscribe at any time. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information,
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communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesPeptic ulcers occur when acid in the digestive tract eats away at the inner surface of the stomach or small intestine. The acid can create a painful open sore that may bleed. Your digestive tract is coated with a mucous layer that normally protects against acid. But if the amount of acid is increased or the amount of mucus is decreased, you could develop an ulcer. Common causes include:
Risk factorsIn addition to having risks related to taking NSAIDs, you may have an increased risk of peptic ulcers if you:
Alone, these factors do not cause ulcers, but they can make ulcers worse and more difficult to heal. ComplicationsLeft untreated, peptic ulcers can result in:
PreventionYou may reduce your risk of peptic ulcer if you follow the same strategies recommended as home remedies to treat ulcers. It also may be helpful to:
Peptic ulcer care at Mayo Clinic June 11, 2022
RelatedAssociated ProceduresNews from Mayo ClinicProducts & ServicesWhich pain related clinical manifestation would the nurse expect in a client who received a diagnosis of a peptic ulcer?The most common symptom in patients with peptic ulcer disease is dyspepsia or upper abdominal pain. This pain may be vague upper abdominal discomfort or it may be localized to either the right upper quadrant, left upper quadrant, or epigastrium.
What are stomach ulcers symptoms?The most common symptom of a stomach ulcer is a burning or gnawing pain in the centre of the tummy (abdomen). But stomach ulcers aren't always painful and some people may experience other symptoms, such as indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux and feeling sick.
Can an ulcer cause lower abdominal pain?The most common ulcer symptom is a dull or burning pain in your belly between your breastbone and your belly button (navel). This pain often occurs around meal times and may wake you up at night. It can last from a few minutes to a few hours.
What are the signs and symptoms of the patient that are compatible with peptic ulcer disease?Symptoms. Burning stomach pain.. Feeling of fullness, bloating or belching.. Intolerance to fatty foods.. Heartburn.. Nausea.. |