Peptic ulcers are sores that arise on the inside lining of the stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine.

The two types of peptic ulcers are:

  • Gastric ulcersthat occur on the inside of the stomach lining
  • Duodenal ulcersthat occur in the lining of the upper portion of your small intestine (duodenum)

It is possible to have both gastric and duodenal ulcers at the same time. This is known as a gastroduodenal ulcer.

Symptoms include:

Many people with peptic ulcers do not have symptoms. However, the most common symptom is stomach pain. Gastric ulcer symptoms are more likely to be experienced right after eating, while duodenal ulcer symptoms are typically felt several hours after a meal.

Other symptoms include:

  • Bloating
  • Belching
  • Intolerance for fatty foods
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea

Uncommon symptoms may include:

  • Vomiting or vomiting blood (possibly red or black in color)
  • Bloody stools
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Feeling faint
  • Nausea
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Appetite changes

Treatment may include:

  • Antibiotics to kill H. pylori infection and promote healing
  • Proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid production and protect the stomach lining
  • Histamine (H-2) blockers to reduce acid production
  • Antacids that neutralize stomach acid
  • Cytoprotective agents to protect the lining of your stomach and small intestine

Note: This information shouldn’t take the place of a physician’s care. Please see your physician or Dr. Suman Kaur of the Digestive Disease Associates of Hinsdale, Illinois physicians with any questions or concerns: (630) 325-4255.