16.12.2024.
Stomach ulcers, or gastric ulcers, are sores that form on the stomach lining. Similar sores can also develop in the upper part of the small intestine, known as duodenal ulcers. Both types, often called peptic ulcers, have similar symptoms and are treated in the same way.
Signs and symptoms
The most common symptom of a stomach ulcer is a burning or gnawing pain in the centre of the tummy (abdomen).
However, stomach ulcers don’t always cause pain. Some people may have other symptoms like indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux, or feeling nauseous.
When to seek medical advice
You should visit your GP if you think you may have a stomach ulcer.
Contact your doctor if:
- you are passing dark, sticky, tar-like stools
- you have a sudden, sharp pain in your tummy that gets steadily worse
Go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department if:
- you are vomiting blood – the blood can appear bright red or have a dark brown, grainy appearance, similar to coffee grounds
These could be a sign of a serious complication, such as internal bleeding.
Causes of stomach ulcers
Stomach ulcers happen when there’s damage to the layer that protects the stomach lining from the acids in your stomach.
This is usually a result of:
- an infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria
- taking anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin – particularly if they’re taken for a long time or at high doses
It used to be thought that stress or certain foods might cause stomach ulcers, but there’s little evidence to suggest this is the case.
Stomach ulcers can affect anyone but are more common in people aged 60 or over. Men are more affected than women.
How stomach ulcers are treated
Treatment will depend on what caused the ulcer.
Most people will be prescribed a medication called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce the amount of acid in their stomach.
You’ll also need antibiotics if your ulcers were caused by a H. pylori infection.
Stomach ulcers can come back after treatment, although this is less likely to happen if the underlying cause is addressed.
Possible complications
Complications of stomach ulcers are relatively uncommon, but they can be very serious and potentially life threatening.
The main complications include:
- bleeding at the site of the ulcer
- the stomach lining at the site of the ulcer splitting open (perforation)
- the ulcer blocking the movement of food through the digestive system (gastric obstruction)
SOURCE
NHS UK
