Digestive
Peptic ulcer disease
Also known as: Stomach ulcer, Duodenal ulcer
Peptic ulcer disease condition guide: symptoms, causes, prevention, and when to seek care. Educational only — not a diagnosis.
Overview
Peptic ulcers form when acid damages the stomach or duodenal lining. They are often linked to Helicobacter pylori bacteria or pain medicines such as NSAIDs. Without care they can bleed.
Symptoms
- Burning pain in the upper belly
- Pain that eases or worsens after eating
- Nausea
- Feeling full quickly
- Weight loss
- Black stools if bleeding
Causes
H. pylori, NSAID medicines, smoking, heavy alcohol, and stress that worsens symptoms. Spicy food alone is not the main cause.
Treatment (general information)
Treatment may include acid-reducing medicines and antibiotics if H. pylori is present. Stop unprescribed NSAIDs. Do not ignore bleeding or coffee-ground vomit.
Prevention
Use pain medicines only with advice, avoid smoking and heavy alcohol, and treat confirmed H. pylori infection.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent care for vomiting blood, black stools, fainting, or sudden severe pain.
Frequently asked questions
- Does milk heal an ulcer?
- Milk may soothe briefly but is not a cure. Medicine and treating the cause are needed.
- Can I pass H. pylori to others?
- The bacteria can spread in households with poor hygiene. Handwashing and safe water help.