A peptic ulcer’s most common symptom is burning stomach pain, also described as a dull, gnawing abdominal ache or discomfort. Typical experiences with this pain is that it comes and goes, increases when stomach is empty and goes away with eating or taking antacids.
Some other ulcer symptoms include:
Essentially, a peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of your stomach, or head of your small intestines, that will get worse if left untreated. Its most common cause is a H. pylori bacterial infection, but long-term nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines use, like aspirin, can also be the cause.
The best ulcer treatment is a triple therapy combination of:
- antibiotics to kill the bacteria
- stomach protectors containing bismuth subsalicylate
- acid suppressors ~ H2 blockers & proton pump inhibitors
Some mild side effects of this treatment include:
If peptic ulcers are not treated serious problems may occur, such as:
- an ulcer blocking food from leaving your stomach
- an ulcer burrowing through your stomach or duodenal wall
- acid or ulcer breaking a blood vessel which causes bleeding
Seek medical attention if you experience sharp, sudden, persistent stomach pain; eliminate bloody or black stools; or vomit blood or what looks like coffee grounds.