Stomach Ulcer: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Chetan Rathi , Gastroenterologists Medical

Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are painful sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. These ulcers can cause discomfort, pain, and complications if left untreated.

Ulcers can vary in size and severity and are often caused by factors such as infection, inflammation, or erosion of the protective lining of the affected area.

What are the Stomach Ulcer Symptoms and Warning Signs?

Stomach ulcers can show up with mild to severe symptoms. Recognizing them early is crucial for avoiding complications and getting the proper treatment.

Common Symptoms

Burning stomach pain (often worse on an empty stomach)
Bloating
Nausea
Heartburn
Loss of appetite
Mild abdominal discomfort

Severe Symptoms

Vomiting blood (may look like coffee grounds)
Dark, tarry stools
Sudden, sharp stomach pain
Unexplained weight loss

What are the Different Types of Stomach Ulcers?

Yes, stomach ulcers are one type of peptic ulcer disease (PUD). Other types include:

Duodenal Ulcer: occurs in the upper part of the small intestine.
Esophageal Ulcer: forms in the esophagus, often due to acid reflux.
Stomach ulcers: specifically affect the inner lining of the stomach.

What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Stomach Ulcers?

Stomach ulcers result from a breakdown in the protective lining of the stomach. Understanding the cause helps in better management.

Causes

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
Long-term use of NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin)
Excess acid production due to stress or certain conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)

Risk Factors

Smoking
Alcohol consumption
Family history of ulcers
Chronic stress
Spicy food (may aggravate symptoms)
Age over 60

When to Consult a Doctor

If you fall into a high-risk category or use NSAIDs regularly, consider routine check-ups to prevent complications.

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How Stomach Ulcer is Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a stomach ulcer involves identifying both the Ulcer and its underlying cause.

Diagnostic Methods Include

Endoscopy: a camera tube is used to view the stomach lining directly.
H. pylori Testing: via breath, blood, or stool tests.
Upper GI series (Barium Swallow X-ray)
Biopsy: taken during endoscopy to rule out malignancy.

What are the Treatment Options for Stomach Ulcers?

To diagnose an ulcer, several tests may be recommended by your doctor. Here are some common ulcer treatments:

Treatment Approaches Include

Antibiotics (if H. pylori is detected)
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid
H2-receptor antagonists
Antacids and mucosal protective agents
Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, avoiding NSAIDs, and dietary adjustments
Surgery (rarely for complications like perforation)

Recovery Timeline

Most ulcers begin healing within 1-2 weeks with proper treatment. Complete recovery may take up to 6-8 weeks.

Medicover's Care

Our gastroenterologists provide end-to-end treatment with constant monitoring, nutritional counseling, and emotional support.

When to See a Doctor?

Early attention prevents serious complications.

See a doctor if

Pain lasts more than 7 days
You experience vomiting or stool changes
Symptoms return after treatment
You're over 60 and use NSAIDs frequently

High-Risk Individuals

Older adults, smokers, and patients with past ulcers should seek care even for mild symptoms.

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What is the Recovery Process After Stomach Ulcer Treatment?

Recovery involves more than just symptom relief, it's about preventing recurrence and restoring well-being.

Follow-up

Regular check-ups after 4-8 weeks
Repeat endoscopy if symptoms persist

Lifestyle Tips

Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Avoid spicy, acidic, and fatty foods
Limit caffeine and alcohol
Quit smoking

Medicover's Support

We offer continuous post-treatment support, nutritional counseling, and individual care plans.

What Precautions Can Help Prevent Stomach Ulcer?

Prevention focuses on reducing stomach lining irritation and managing risks.

Prevention

Limit NSAID use; always take with food
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Manage stress through relaxation techniques
Good hygiene to prevent H. pylori infection

Complications If Untreated

Internal bleeding
Perforation of the stomach wall
Gastric outlet obstruction
Increased risk of stomach cancer

Our Experience Treating Stomach Ulcers

At Medicover, we treat stomach ulcers with a blend of clinical expertise and genuine care. Our specialists personalize each treatment to the patient's lifestyle and needs, helping them heal comfortably and confidently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Some mild ulcers may heal naturally, but most require medication to fully resolve and prevent complications like bleeding or recurrence. Hospitals like Medicover Hospital can guide you with appropriate treatment.

The ulcer itself isn't contagious, but Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a common cause, can spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Testing and treatment are often advised.

Stress doesn't directly cause ulcers, but it can increase stomach acid and worsen existing symptoms. Stress management is often recommended as part of holistic care in multi-specialty hospitals like Medicover.

Spicy foods don't cause ulcers, but they can irritate the stomach lining and make symptoms worse if an ulcer is already present. Dietary guidance from a hospital-based specialist can help manage triggers.

Many over-the-counter painkillers, like NSAIDs, can aggravate ulcers. It's best to consult a doctor at a multi-specialty hospital like Medicover for safer pain relief options.

Yes, especially if left untreated. Ulcers can lead to bleeding, perforation, or infection. Early diagnosis and proper treatment in a hospital setting help avoid these risks.

Yes, particularly if H. pylori isn't fully eradicated or irritants like smoking and NSAIDs continue. Ongoing care at hospitals like Medicover Hospital helps monitor and prevent recurrence.