Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Stomach ulcers are sores or lesions in the stomach lining caused by factors like H. pylori infection, NSAIDs, or excessive acid production.

Stomach Ulcers FAQ

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What is a stomach ulcer?

A stomach ulcer is an open sore in the lining of your stomach. Stomach ulcers are usually caused by an infection from the bacteria helicobacter pylori or from taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.

Are stomach ulcers a type of peptic ulcer disease?

Stomach ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer disease. Peptic ulcers are any ulcers that affect both the stomach and small intestines. Stomach ulcers occur when the thick layer of mucus that protects your stomach from digestive juices is reduced. This allows the digestive acids to eat away at the tissues that line the stomach, causing an ulcer.

How common are stomach ulcers?

In the U.S., healthcare providers treat about 4 million stomach ulcers every year. Ulcers are common in our society because their main causes are also common. These include use of over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications and a widespread bacterial infection called H. pylori. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.

What are stomach ulcers?

Stomach ulcers, which are also known as gastric ulcers, are painful sores in the stomach lining. Stomach ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer disease. Peptic ulcers are any ulcers that affect both the stomach and small intestines. Stomach ulcers occur when the thick layer of mucus that protects your stomach from digestive juices is reduced.

What causes stomach ulcers?

Stomach ulcers are usually caused by an infection from the bacteria helicobacter pylori or from taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines. Stomach ulcers are usually treated with medicines to reduce the amount of acid in your stomach — your doctor will prescribe these with or without antibiotics.