Peptic Ulcer: Causes, Treatments, and What You Need to Know

When you have a peptic ulcer, a sore in the lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine. Also known as stomach ulcer, it’s not caused by stress or spicy food—despite what you might have heard. It’s usually from H. pylori, a bacteria that weakens the protective mucus layer in your gut or from long-term use of NSAIDs, like ibuprofen or aspirin, which block the enzymes that protect your stomach lining. Left untreated, it can lead to bleeding, perforation, or even blockages.

Most people don’t realize that proton pump inhibitors, medications like omeprazole or esomeprazole that shut down acid production, are the first-line treatment for peptic ulcers. They don’t just relieve pain—they let the ulcer heal by giving your stomach a chance to recover. But if H. pylori is the cause, antibiotics are just as important. A simple breath or stool test can confirm it, and a two-week combo of two antibiotics plus a PPI clears the infection in most cases. The real danger? Ignoring symptoms. Burning pain that gets better after eating, nausea, bloating, or black stools aren’t "just indigestion." They’re warning signs.

What you take matters. Even over-the-counter painkillers can make ulcers worse. If you’re on daily NSAIDs for arthritis or headaches, talk to your doctor about alternatives like acetaminophen or protective meds. And don’t assume quitting alcohol or spicy food will fix it—while those can irritate, they’re rarely the root cause. The science is clear: treat the bacteria or stop the drugs that damage the lining. That’s how ulcers heal.

Below, you’ll find real, practical posts that break down exactly how these treatments work, what drugs to avoid, how to recognize complications, and why some medications help while others hurt. No fluff. Just what you need to understand your gut health and make smarter choices with your doctor.