Ulcer Symptoms

Ulcers are erosion or holes in the gastrointestinal tract. Ulcers forming in the stomach are called Gastric Ulcers and the ulcers forming in the duodenal tract (this is the first 10 - 12 inches of the small intestine directly at the end of the stomach) are known as Peptic Ulcers.

Having an ulcer is not a contagious disease. However, stomach ulcers can become malignant, but a duodenal ulcer is almost always benign.

The cause of ulcers is the bacterial called Helicobacter pylori, a spiral shaped bacteria which is present in the stomach. It is often stated that stress is the major factor in causing ulcers because Helicobacter pylori thrives in an acidic environment, and stress often causes excessive production of stomach acids. Use of NSAIDs such as Aspirin has also been identified as agents which worsen an ulcer. Other causes of ulcers include contaminated water, irregular mealtimes, smoking, overuse of laxatives and even family history.

There are various ulcer symptoms. These are:

• Abdominal pain - This is a burning feeling or gnawing pain in the stomach that lasts about for anywhere between 30 minutes to 3 hours. Pain may also occur in the upper part of the abdomen or below the breastbone. Some people get this pain immediately after eating, while some get this pain hours after eating. This pain may often awaken one at night. Weeks of this pain may also be followed by weeks of no pain.
• This pain can often be relieved by antacids, or by drinking milk.
• Heartburn, Indigestion or Hunger.
• Weight Loss or Weight Gain - Duodenal Ulcers are often relieved by eating more, so such people experience weight gain. Peptic Ulcers cause weight loss due to a loss of appetite.
• Vomiting Blood.
• Blood in the Stool.
• Bloating in the abdominal area.
• Foul-smelling feces.