Davidson County
Health Department
HEALTH TO YOU A – Z
INFORMATION SHEET
Peptic Ulcer
What is a Peptic Ulcer?
Peptic Ulcers are painful, open sores or ulcers in the lining of the esophagus (Esophageal ulcer),
stomach (Gastric ulcer), or in the upper part of the small intestine (Duodenal ulcer). Most ulcers
are caused by a bacteria called H pylori. Other causes are an imbalance in the digestive fluids in
the stomach or the duodenum. Pain is the most common symptom. Stress and spicy foods
causing ulcers are a myth. Drinking milk to heal an ulcer is also a myth.
What are the risk factors for developing a Peptic Ulcer?
 Smoking or chewing tobacco
 Serious illness
 Use of over the counter NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin,
Aleve (naproxen), Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen), and others.
 Excessive use of alcohol
 Radiation treatment to the abdomen
What are the symptoms of a Peptic Ulcer?
 Burning, gnawing pain is the most common symptom. Pain is caused by stomach acid
coming in contact with the open ulcer. Pain can be felt from the breast bone to the navel
and be worse when the stomach is empty. Pain worsening at night is common. Pain can
worsen as the ulcer worsens
 Weight loss as the ulcer worsens
 Bloating, excess burping
 Heartburn
 Nausea or vomiting
 If ulcer is bleeding:
Black, tarry stool
Vomiting bright red blood or coffee grounds-looking vomit
What can happen if an ulcer is ignored?
 Bleeding that can be serious
 A hole through the wall of the stomach can develop, called a perforation.
 Swelling or scarring that can block the opening from the stomach to the small intestine
called Gastric Outlet Obstruction
What is the treatment for Peptic Ulcers?
 Make life-style changes such as stopping NSAIDS, stop smoking and drinking alcohol
 Medications include: Proton pump inhibitors that reduce the acid level and allow the ulcer
to heal. Antibiotics to rid the stomach of H. pylori if that is the cause. Some ulcers can be
treated through an endoscope. Surgery may be needed if the ulcer has caused a perforation
or if there is serious bleeding.
When should I contact my Medical Provider?
If any of the above symptoms persist or worsen. Contact the Medical Provider immediately if
vomiting blood or having coffee grounds vomit or black tarry stools.
PO Box 439, Lexington, NC 27293
(336) 242-2300
www.dchdnc.com