Gastric ulcers: Symptoms, causes and what to do

Causes and diagnosis

Gastric ulcers are open sores on the stomach lining. They cause burning or gnawing pain, often between meals or at night. You may notice bloating, belching, nausea, or loss of appetite. Black or bloody stools and vomit that looks like coffee grounds mean bleeding and need urgent care.

The two main causes are Helicobacter pylori infection and long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen. Smoking and heavy alcohol use make ulcers worse. Stress and spicy food don't cause ulcers but can worsen pain.

A doctor will ask about medicines and test for H. pylori with a breath or stool test. An endoscopy is used when pain is severe, bleeding is suspected, or diagnosis is unclear.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment depends on the cause. If H. pylori is found you get antibiotics plus a proton pump inhibitor for a few weeks to heal the lining. If NSAIDs caused the ulcer stopping them and using a PPI or H2 blocker helps. Your doctor may recommend switching pain control to acetaminophen.

Call your doctor if pain gets worse or you vomit blood. Repeat H. pylori testing after treatment is common to confirm eradication. Endoscopy can also let doctors take a biopsy or treat bleeding directly.

To lower risk quit smoking, limit alcohol, and avoid regular NSAID use when possible. If you must take NSAIDs ask about protective medicines. Eating smaller meals, avoiding late heavy dinners, and skipping hot spicy dishes when they bother you can ease symptoms.

PPIs and H2 blockers work fast. Side effects include headache, constipation, or diarrhea. Long-term PPI use has been linked to bone fractures and low magnesium in some people, so talk about risks versus benefits.

Over-the-counter antacids help short-term. Some people use probiotics to improve tolerance of H. pylori treatment but probiotics don't replace antibiotics. Surgery is rare and only for severe bleeding or a perforated stomach wall.

If you suspect an ulcer note triggers and avoid them. Make an appointment with your GP or a gastroenterologist if pain persists beyond a week or you notice worrying signs. For clear, practical medicine guides check ClearSkyPharmacy.Biz or ask us.

During the first few days of treatment many people feel better as acid falls, but full healing takes weeks. Finish all antibiotics if prescribed even when pain fades; not finishing can lead to persistent infection and return of ulcers. If pain continues after treatment your doctor may repeat endoscopy or check for other causes like bile reflux or medication issues.

Many think spicy food causes ulcers. It doesn't, but spicy meals can increase discomfort. People also fear PPIs; talk to your doctor about using the lowest effective dose and possible breaks. Use simple records: note when pain starts, medicines you take, and any bleeding signs. These notes help your doctor decide tests and treatments faster.

If you have other health conditions like liver disease or diabetes, mention them; they can change treatment choices and follow-up timing. plan your care.