What is a Peptic Ulcer? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Have you ever felt a burning pain in your stomach? It may come when you are hungry, at night, or after eating certain foods. Many people ignore it and think it is “just acidity” or “gas”. But sometimes, this pain can be more serious. One common reason behind this discomfort is a peptic ulcer.

Peptic ulcers are not rare—they affect millions of people worldwide. The good news is that, with the right knowledge, they can be treated and even prevented. This blog will explain what peptic ulcers are, why they happen, and the signs you should watch for.

What is a Peptic Ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the lining of your stomach or the upper part of your small intestine (called the duodenum). Normally, these areas have a protective lining that shields them from strong stomach acid. But when the lining gets damaged or weak, acid can create painful sores. These sores are called ulcers.

There are two main types:

• Gastric ulcers: Ulcers in the stomach.
• Duodenal ulcers: Ulcers in the first part of the small intestine.

Although they sound serious, most peptic ulcers heal well with proper treatment. The key is recognising them early and seeking medical care.

What Causes Peptic Ulcers?

Many people believe that ulcers are caused by stress or eating too much spicy food. While these can make symptoms worse, they are not the root cause. The main causes are:

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection

H. pylori is a type of bacteria that can live in your stomach.

• Over time, it weakens the protective lining, allowing acid to create sores.
• It is one of the most common infections worldwide.

Regular use of pain-relief medicines (NSAIDs)

• Medicines like ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen can irritate the stomach lining when used often.
• People who take these drugs frequently for chronic pain are at higher risk.

Other risk factors include:

• Smoking and alcohol use (they irritate the stomach lining).
• Having a family history of ulcers.
• Serious illnesses or injuries (they can increase stomach acid production).

What Are the Symptoms of a Peptic Ulcer?

Ulcers do not always show obvious symptoms. Some people never feel anything until complications occur. When symptoms do appear, the most common signs include:

• Burning or gnawing stomach pain, usually between meals or at night.
• Pain that improves after eating or taking antacids.
• Bloating, burping, or feeling full quickly.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Loss of appetite.

Serious warning signs (seek medical care immediately):

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
• Black or tar-like stools (a sign of internal bleeding).
• Sudden, sharp stomach pain that does not go away.

How is a Peptic Ulcer Diagnosed?

If you think you might have an ulcer, do not ignore it. A doctor can use several tests to confirm the condition:

• Medical history and symptom check: Doctors ask about your pain patterns, medicines, and lifestyle.
• Tests for H. pylori: These may include a breath test, stool test, or blood test. 
• Endoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is passed through the throat into the stomach to see ulcers directly. A small tissue sample (biopsy) may also be taken.
• X-ray with barium swallow: Less common, but sometimes used to show ulcers in the digestive tract.

How to Treat Peptic Ulcers

The good news is that peptic ulcers are treatable. Treatment depends on the cause and often includes medications and lifestyle adjustments.

1. Medications

• Antibiotics: If H. pylori infection is present, a combination of antibiotics is prescribed to kill the bacteria.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid, allowing the ulcer to heal.
• H2 blockers: Another type of acid-reducing medicine.
• Antacids: Provide quick, short-term relief of pain.
• Protective medications: Coat the stomach lining to help healing.

2. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they delay healing.
• Reduce NSAID use if possible, or switch to alternatives under medical advice.

3. Surgery (rarely needed)

• Surgery is considered only if ulcers do not heal with medicine or if complications like severe bleeding occur.

Most ulcers start healing within a few weeks of proper treatment. Completing the full course of medicine is very important.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

While not all ulcers can be prevented, you can reduce your risk and improve healing with these simple tips:

• Limit NSAID use: Use the lowest dose possible and never take them on an empty stomach. Ask your doctor about safer alternatives if needed long-term.
• Practise good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and eat clean, well-prepared food to reduce the risk of H. pylori infection.
• Avoid smoking and heavy drinking: Both can damage the stomach lining and increase acid production.
• Manage stress wisely: Stress does not cause ulcers, but it can worsen symptoms. Try deep breathing, walking, or mindfulness exercises.
• Eat balanced meals: Small, frequent meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains support digestive health. Spicy foods are okay unless they irritate your stomach.
• Listen to your body:If stomach pain lingers or worsens, do not ignore it. Early treatment prevents complications.

Final Thoughts

Peptic ulcers may sound scary, but they are manageable and often curable.

Do not dismiss ongoing stomach discomfort as “just acidity”. Pay attention to your body, seek medical advice when needed, and make simple lifestyle changes.

Think of your digestive system as the engine that powers your body—it needs care and attention. If you or someone you know has persistent stomach pain, remember: the sooner you address it, the faster the healing.

FAQs

Can peptic ulcers be cured?

Yes. Most ulcers can be completely cured with proper treatment, including antibiotics (for H. pylori) and acid-reducing medicines.

How do you know if a stomach ulcer is serious?

Severe or sudden stomach pain, vomiting blood, or black/tarry stools may indicate a serious ulcer and need urgent medical care.

What foods should you avoid if you have a peptic ulcer?

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and foods that irritate your stomach, like very spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. Triggers may vary by person.

What is the fastest way to cure a peptic ulcer?

The fastest and safest way is medical treatment—antibiotics (if H. pylori is present) plus acid-reducing medicines prescribed by a doctor.

Is a peptic ulcer the same as gastritis?

No. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. A peptic ulcer is an actual sore in the stomach or small intestine lining.