Peptic ulcer
A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Most ulcers are caused by H. pylori infection or by painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and aspirin. Ulcers usually heal with treatment, but they can bleed or make a hole in the stomach, which are emergencies.
Symptoms
- Burning pain in the upper stomach, often between meals or at night
- Pain that eases or gets worse with eating or antacids
- Bloating and belching
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Black stools or vomiting blood if the ulcer bleeds
Causes
- H. pylori infection
- Painkillers (NSAIDs) and aspirin, especially at high doses or for a long time
- Smoking and naswar
- Alcohol
- Older age, and taking steroids together with painkillers, raise the risk
Prevention
- Use painkillers only when needed and ask a doctor before long-term use
- Do not smoke or use naswar
- Drink clean water and wash hands before eating
- Get tested and treated for H. pylori if you have repeated stomach pain
Treatment
- Acid-reducing medicine, such as omeprazole, for several weeks as prescribed
- Treatment to clear H. pylori — finish the whole course, then get re-tested if your doctor advises
- Stopping painkillers that harm the stomach, after asking your doctor
- Hospital care for a bleeding or perforated ulcer
- Do not start antibiotics or other prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Is spicy food the cause of ulcers?
No. Most ulcers are caused by H. pylori or by painkillers. Spicy food does not cause ulcers, but it can make the pain worse for some people.
Can an ulcer come back?
Yes, if H. pylori is not fully cleared or if you keep taking painkillers that harm the stomach. Finishing treatment and avoiding these painkillers lowers the risk.