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Peptic Ulcer
A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the first part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcer). Most are caused by H. pylori or painkillers.
Causes & risk factors
- H. pylori infection (the commonest cause)
- Long-term use of NSAID painkillers
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Excess stomach acid
- Stress from severe illness (aggravating factor)
Common symptoms
- Burning upper tummy pain, often between meals or at night
- Bloating and fullness
- Nausea, sometimes vomiting
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Black, tarry stools (if bleeding)
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
Tests & diagnosis
- Upper GI endoscopy
- H. pylori test (breath, stool or biopsy)
- CBC (to check for anaemia)
- Haemoglobin
Treatment & management
- Clear H. pylori with a prescribed antibiotic course if present
- Acid-suppressing medicines such as proton-pump inhibitors to let the ulcer heal
- Stop NSAID painkillers where possible
- Stop smoking and cut down alcohol
- Endoscopic treatment or surgery if the ulcer bleeds or perforates
When to see a doctor urgently
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground material
- Black, tarry or bloody stools
- Sudden severe tummy pain with a rigid abdomen (possible perforation) — seek emergency care
- Feeling faint, dizzy or short of breath
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about peptic ulcer. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Does spicy food cause ulcers?
No. Spicy food can irritate an existing ulcer but does not cause one. The main causes are H. pylori infection and NSAID painkillers.
Can a peptic ulcer heal on its own?
Small ulcers may settle, but proper treatment — acid suppression and clearing H. pylori — heals them faster and prevents complications like bleeding.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.