Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcer disease refers to painful sores or ulcers in the lining of the stomach or first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. The stomach lining is typically protected by a thick layer of mucus. When this layer is damaged, ulcers occur.

No single cause has been found for ulcers. However, it is now clear that an ulcer is the end result of an imbalance between digestive fluids in the stomach and duodenum. 

Ulcers can be caused by:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
• Use of painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ibuprofens, among others
• Excess acid production

Symptoms of ulcers may or may not occur, but include:

• A gnawing or burning pain in the middle or upper stomach between meals or at night
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• Nausea or vomiting

In severe cases, symptoms can include:

• Dark or black stool (due to bleeding)
• Vomiting
• Weight loss
• Severe pain in the mid- to upper abdomen

Treatment of peptic ulcer disease usually involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and in more severe cases, surgery.