Every year, up to 850,000 new cases of ulcer disease are diagnosed and more than a million Americans are hospitalized for an ulcer-related condition. If you have stomach pain and suffer from acid reflux, burping, and heartburn, make an appointment with us.
What is a stomach ulcer?
An ulcer is an open sore. While ulcers can occur almost anywhere on your body, they’re often found in your stomach or in the adjacent upper part of the small intestine. Stomach ulcers — sometimes called peptic ulcers — are referred to as gastric ulcers when they occur on the inside of your stomach pouch, or duodenal ulcers if they develop in the upper part of your small intestine that connects to your stomach.
The most common symptom of a stomach ulcer is the pain. However, you may also experience:
Additionally, you might feel full easily or avoid eating because of pain or feeling filled up easily. This can lead to unintended weight loss.
What causes stomach ulcers?
Stomach ulcers develop when the mucus that lines your stomach thins and your digestive juices can burn your stomach lining and create an open sore. One of the most common causes of a stomach ulcer is an infection with a bacerium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). You may also develop a stomach ulcer with long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen. Occasionally stomach ulcers are malignant. Prompt diagnosis is crucial.
Your risk of developing stomach ulcers increases if you consume alcohol, smoke cigarettes, or suffer from unmanaged stress.
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