Peptic ulcers are a common digestive problem, affecting millions of people worldwide. They can be painful, uncomfortable, and disruptive but with the right information, they are also very treatable.

If you’ve ever experienced a burning stomach pain that gets better or worse after eating, an ulcer may be the reason.

What Is a Peptic Ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine.

They occur when the protective mucus layer gets damaged, allowing stomach acid to irritate the lining.

There are two main types:

Gastric ulcer – forms in the stomach

Duodenal ulcer – forms in the upper small intestine

What Causes Peptic Ulcers?

Several factors can damage the stomach lining. The most common causes include:

1. H. pylori Infection

This bacteria is the leading cause of ulcers.

It weakens the stomach’s natural protection, making it easier for acid to create wounds.

2. Frequent Use of Pain Relievers

Medications like:

Aspirin

Ibuprofen

Naproxen

These can irritate the stomach lining when used often or in high doses.

3. Excess Stomach Acid

This can happen due to:

Stress

Smoking

Alcohol

Spicy foods (not a direct cause, but they can irritate symptoms)

4. Lifestyle Factors

Habits like drinking heavily, skipping meals, eating late at night, or consuming too much caffeine can worsen symptoms or slow healing.

Common Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers

The symptoms can vary, but the most common one is a burning or gnawing pain in the upper belly.

Other signs include:

Bloating or burping

Heartburn

Nausea or vomiting

Loss of appetite

Weight loss

Pain that improves after eating (common with duodenal ulcers)

Pain that worsens after eating (common with gastric ulcers)

When It's Serious

Seek urgent medical attention if you notice:

Vomiting blood

Black, tar-like stool

Sudden, severe abdominal pain

These can be signs of a bleeding or perforated ulcer.

How Are Peptic Ulcers Diagnosed?

Doctors may use:

Blood, stool, or breath tests for H. pylori infection

Endoscopy, where a small camera checks the stomach lining

Imaging tests like X-rays in some cases

Treatment Options

1. Treating H. pylori

If the ulcer is caused by H. pylori, doctors usually prescribe a combination of antibiotics plus medicine that reduces stomach acid.

2. Reducing Stomach Acid

Doctors may recommend medications that:

Lower acid production

Protect the stomach lining

These help the ulcer heal over time.

3. Avoiding Irritants

You may need to avoid or limit:

Pain relievers like ibuprofen

Alcohol

Smoking

Very spicy or acidic foods

4. Lifestyle Changes

Small habits can make a big difference:

Eat smaller, more frequent meals

Avoid eating right before bedtime

Reduce stress

Stay hydrated

Can Peptic Ulcers Be Prevented?

Absolutely. Here’s how:

Don’t take pain relievers on an empty stomach

Limit alcohol and caffeine

Don’t smoke

Wash hands regularly to avoid H. pylori

Manage stress

Maintain a balanced diet

Peptic ulcers can be painful, but they are highly treatable when diagnosed early.

If you’re experiencing persistent stomach pain, don’t ignore it .Proper testing and treatment can prevent complications and help your stomach heal completely.

Your digestive health matters. Listen to your body, treat it gently, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if something feels off.