Peptic ulcer disease is like an open sore in the lining of your stomach or the upper part of your small intestine. The most common sign of peptic ulcer disease is stomach pain.
Types of peptic ulcers are:
- Gastric ulcers: These are in your stomach.
- Duodenal ulcers: These are in the upper part of your small intestine, called the duodenum.
The most common reasons for peptic ulcers are infection with a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and using certain pain relievers for a long time, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). Stress and spicy foods don't directly cause peptic ulcers, but they can make your symptoms worse.
Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcer disease may cause symptoms of indigestion.
Common symptoms include:
1. Burning stomach pain
This is a key symptom of peptic ulcers. It typically manifests as a burning sensation in the upper abdomen, often centered around the stomach area. The pain may come and go, and it can vary in intensity. It tends to worsen when the stomach is empty and may be relieved temporarily by eating or taking antacids.
2. Feeling full, bloated, or experiencing belching
People with peptic ulcers may feel a sense of fullness or bloating after eating, even if they haven't eaten much. Belching, or burping, may also occur frequently, contributing to discomfort.
Source: Bloating usually refers to swelling or distention of the stomach or abdomen
3. Difficulty tolerating fatty foods
Fatty or greasy foods can exacerbate symptoms of peptic ulcers. They may trigger or worsen abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion in individuals with ulcers.
4. Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, often accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth. It occurs when stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus, leading to irritation. While heartburn is more commonly associated with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it can also be a symptom of peptic ulcers, especially if it occurs alongside other ulcer-related symptoms.
5. Nausea
Nausea, or a feeling of queasiness or discomfort in the stomach, is another common symptom of peptic ulcers. It may occur on its own or in conjunction with other symptoms like abdominal pain or bloating. In some cases, nausea may be severe enough to cause vomiting.
The most common symptom of peptic ulcer disease is a burning pain in the stomach. This pain can worsen when stomach acid increases, especially on an empty stomach. Eating certain foods that help neutralize stomach acid or taking medication to reduce acid levels can often ease the pain temporarily, but it may return later. The pain tends to be more intense between meals and at night.
Interestingly, many people with peptic ulcers may not experience any symptoms at all.
In some cases, ulcers may lead to more severe signs or symptoms such as:
- Vomiting, sometimes with blood that can be red or black
- Dark, tarry stools indicating the presence of blood
- Difficulty breathing
- Feeling faint
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in appetite
Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications
Complications of peptic ulcer disease can be serious. Here are the three major ones:
1. Hemorrhage
This means excessive bleeding, which can happen if the ulcer erodes a blood vessel. It can lead to severe blood loss and requires urgent medical attention.
2. Perforation or Penetration
This occurs when the ulcer burns through the wall of the stomach or small intestine. It can cause leakage of stomach contents into the abdominal cavity, leading to infection and other complications.
Source: Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen.
3. Gastric Outlet Obstruction
Also known as pyloric stenosis, this happens when the opening from the stomach into the small intestine narrows due to inflammation or scarring. It can block the passage of food from the stomach, causing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
These complications need prompt treatment, which may include endoscopic therapy among other options. Endoscopic therapy involves using a flexible tube with a camera to diagnose and treat issues in the digestive tract without surgery.
When To See a Doctor
If you have any of the severe signs or symptoms mentioned earlier, it's important to visit your doctor. Additionally, if you find temporary relief from over-the-counter antacids or acid blockers, but your symptoms come back, it's a good idea to seek medical advice
