What Is A Stomach Ulcer?
Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. Ulcers can also occur in part of the intestine just beyond the stomach, which are called duodenal ulcers. Ulcers in the stomach and duodenal ulcers are also sometimes called peptic ulcers. This following information applies to both. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, please contact MyHealthcare Clinic for an appointment with one of our private GPs – call 0207 099 5555 now.
Stomach ulcer symptoms:
While the most common symptom of a stomach ulcer is a burning or gnawing pain in the centre of the abdomen (tummy), not all stomach ulcers cause pain.
Some people experience persistant:
· Indigestion
· Heartburn
· Nausea (feeling sick)
You should speak to your GP if you think you have a stomach ulcer.
More severe symptoms of a stomach ulcer require urgent medical help, such as:
· Vomiting blood – the blood can appear bright red, or be of a dark brown, grainy appearance
· Passing dark, sticky stools
· You experience sharp pains in your tummy that steadily worsen
What causes stomach ulcers?
Stomach ulcers occur when there is a breaking down of the layer protecting the stomach lining from the stomach, which is usually caused by an infection, or having taken anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, or aspirin, for a long time, or at high doses. There is little evidence to suggest that stress, or certain foods, cause stomach ulcers.
If your stomach ulcer was caused by an infection, your GP will usually prescribe antibiotics, which should kill the bacteria and prevent the ulcer coming back
If you ulcer was caused by taking inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, or aspirin, for a long time, or at high doses, you will be treated with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Most stomach ulcers take a few months to heal after treatment. Sometimes, stomach ulcers can return after treatment, however, this is less likely to happen if the underlying cause has been treated.
If you think you are experiencing any symptoms, please contact MyHealthcare Clinic for an appointment with one of our private GPs.