Peptic Ulcers – GI Solutions

What are Peptic Ulcers?

Peptic ulcers are sores in the inner lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. They form when the digestive juices produced by the stomach erode or eat away the lining of the digestive tract. Peptic ulcers may form in the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers) or just below the stomach, at the start of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers). Types of peptic ulcers include:

Gastric Ulcers: Ulcers that occur on the lining of the stomach.

Duodenal Ulcers: Ulcers that occur in the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

Esophageal Ulcers: Less common ulcers that develop in the esophagus, often due to acid reflux or chronic inflammation.

What causes Peptic Ulcers?

The most common causes of peptic ulcers are infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve). Additionally, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress can also cause peptic ulcers.

What are the Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers?

Symptoms of a peptic ulcer can include burning, aching, or gnawing pain between the belly button and the breastbone, and belly pain that is temporarily relieved by taking an antacid. Symptoms can also include back pain, loss of appetite, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. Some people have no symptoms.

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How are Peptic Ulcers Diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam. Your doctor may do some simple tests (using your blood, breath, or stool) to look for signs of H. pylori infection. You may have an endoscopy to check the inside of your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.

How are Peptic Ulcers Treated?

To treat peptic ulcers, most people take medicines that reduce acid in the stomach. If you have an H. pylori infection, you’ll also take antibiotics. You can help your ulcer heal by quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol. Using medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen may increase the chance of your ulcer returning.

Schedule your Appointment

Dr. Jonathan Erlich is a highly trained gastroenterologist with extensive experience diagnosing and treating patients with Hepatitis C. Call (773) 631-2728 to request an appointment or fill in the form below.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Peptic Ulcer Disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, stool tests, and blood tests to identify H. pylori infection and assess the extent of ulceration.

What causes peptic ulcers?

The most common causes are an infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen. Excess stomach acid production can also contribute.

What are the symptoms of a peptic ulcer?

Symptoms may include burning stomach pain, bloating, nausea, heartburn, and in severe cases, vomiting blood or black stools. Some people may have no symptoms at all.

Can stress or spicy food cause peptic ulcers?

Stress and spicy foods do not directly cause ulcers, but they can aggravate symptoms in some individuals who already have an ulcer.

What are the treatment options for peptic ulcers?

Treatment often includes medications to reduce stomach acid (like proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers), antibiotics to treat H. pylori infections, and lifestyle changes like avoiding NSAIDs. In rare cases, surgery may be required.

Can peptic ulcers heal on their own?

Some mild ulcers may heal with lifestyle changes, but most require medical treatment to fully heal and prevent complications.

What happens if a peptic ulcer is left untreated?

Untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications like bleeding, perforation (a hole in the stomach or intestine wall), and blockage in the digestive tract. These conditions can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Are peptic ulcers a long-term condition?

While many peptic ulcers can be effectively treated and healed, some people may experience recurring ulcers if they are not careful with medications, diet, or if they continue to have H. pylori infections.

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