Peptic Ulcer Disease
Open sores in the stomach or small intestine lining
Overview
Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers) or upper portion of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers). They occur when stomach acid damages the protective mucus layer.
Symptoms
- Burning stomach pain
- Feeling of fullness or bloating
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Intolerance to fatty foods
Causes & Risk Factors
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
- Long-term NSAID use
- Excessive stomach acid production
- Stress and spicy foods (aggravating factors)
Treatment Options
- Antibiotics for H. pylori
- Proton pump inhibitors
- H2 blockers
- Antacids
- Avoiding NSAIDs
When to Seek Help
Seek immediate medical care if you experience sharp, sudden stomach pain, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, or unexplained weight loss.
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