Peptic Ulcer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A peptic ulcer is a sore in the stomach or small intestine lining, caused when stomach acid 
damages the protective layer. It can lead to burning stomach pain, bloating, and acidity.
Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer
✔Burning pain in the stomach, often on an empty stomach
✔Bloating, burping, and acidity
✔Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
✔Nausea and sometimes vomiting
✔Dark or black stools, vomiting blood (in severe cases)
Stomach ulcers hurt soon after eating, while ulcers in the small intestine cause pain a few 
hours later or at night.
What Causes Peptic Ulcers?
The two most common causes are:
✅H. pylori infection – A common stomach bacteria that weakens the protective lining.
✅Painkiller overuse (NSAIDs) – Frequent use of aspirin or ibuprofen can damage the 
stomach lining.
Smoking, alcohol, stress, and spicy foods can worsen ulcers but don’t directly cause them.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Doctors may do an endoscopy, breath test, or blood test to confirm an ulcer. Treatment 
includes:
✅Acid-reducing medicines (PPIs) – To heal the ulcer.
✅Antibiotics – To treat H. pylori infection if present.
✅Avoiding painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin.
✅Healthy lifestyle – Eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy foods, alcohol, and stress.
When to See a Doctor?
✅Seek urgent care if you have:
 Severe stomach pain
 Black, tarry stools or vomiting blood
 Sudden dizziness or fainting
With proper treatment, ulcers heal within a few weeks. If you have ongoing acidity or 
stomach pain, visit a doctor or gastro specialist for the right treatment.