Peptic Ulcer Disease
Common ConditionSores in stomach lining or small intestine, often caused by H. pylori bacteria or NSAIDs. Treatable with medication.
Symptoms
Burning stomach pain
Feeling of fullness or bloating
Intolerance to fatty foods
Heartburn
Nausea
Pain improves or worsens with eating
Pain at night
Vomiting
Unexplained weight loss
Blood in stool (dark/tarry)
Causes
1
H. pylori bacterial infection2
Long-term NSAID use3
Aspirin4
Smoking5
Alcohol6
Stress doesn't cause ulcers but worsens them7
Spicy foods don't cause but may irritate8
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome9
Radiation therapy10
GeneticsTreatments
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
H2 blockers
Antibiotics for H. pylori
Antacids
Cytoprotective agents
Stopping NSAIDs if possible
Avoiding alcohol and smoking
Dietary modifications
Surgery (rare, for complications)
Endoscopic treatment for bleeding
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor for persistent abdominal pain. Seek emergency care for severe pain, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, or signs of perforation (sudden severe pain).
Find a Specialist NowAbout Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic Ulcer Disease: Curable with Treatment
Peptic ulcers are usually caused by H. pylori infection or NSAID use—not stress or spicy food. Treatment with antibiotics (if H. pylori) and acid-reducing medications is highly effective.
"Ang ulcer ay may lunas—magpatingin at magpagamot."
Doctors Treating Peptic Ulcer Disease
