A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the upper digestive tract. There are two types of peptic ulcers, a gastric ulcer, which forms in the lining of the stomach, and a duodenal ulcer, which forms in the upper part of the small intestine.
- Causes of peptic ulcers include
- the bacterium named Helicobacter pylori (H pylori),
- aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),
- alcohol,
- physical or emotional stress,
- caffeine,
- smoking, or
- radiation therapy.
- Some people may have no symptoms of an ulcer, but common symptoms include
- abdominal pain,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- loss of appetite,
- weight loss, and
- in severe cases, bleeding in the stomach or duodenum.
- Treatment of a peptic ulcer depends on the cause. Treatments include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, aspirin, and NSAIDs; acid-blocking medications; medications that protect the lining of the stomach and duodenum; and “triple-therapy” or “dual-therapy” regimens for ulcers caused by H pylori.
- Surgery may be performed in some cases that do not respond to medical treatment.
- The prognosis for peptic ulcers is generally good, and most individuals will improve with the appropriate medicine.
- Complications of peptic ulcers include bleeding, perforation, and obstruction.
