CAUSES OF STOMACH ULCER

Stomach ulcers (gastric ulcers) are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. Ulcers can also occur in part of the intestine just beyond the stomach. These are called duodenal ulcers.

Stomach and duodenal ulcers are sometimes called peptic ulcers. This information applies to both.

Symptoms of stomach ulcers

Although the most common symptom of a stomach ulcer is a burning or gnawing pain in the centre of the abdomen (tummy). Not all stomach ulcers are painful.

Some people experience:

  • indigestion
  • heartburn
  • nausea (feeling sick)

You should speak to your GP if you think you have a stomach ulcer.

Get urgent medical advice

Speak to your GP immediately (or phone the 111 service) if:

  • your symptoms persist
  • you're vomiting blood – the blood can appear bright red or have a dark brown, grainy appearance like coffee grounds
  • you're passing dark, sticky, tar-like stools
  • you feel a sudden, sharp pain in your tummy that gets steadily worse

These could be a sign of a serious complication.

What causes stomach ulcers?

Stomach ulcers occur when the layer protecting the stomach lining from stomach acid breaks down. This allows the stomach lining to become damaged.

This is usually caused by:

  • an infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria
  • taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin – particularly if they're taken for a long time or at high doses

There's little evidence that stress or certain foods causes stomach ulcers.

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