Painful sores in the stomach or upper intestine lining, often linked to infection or long-term use of certain painkillers.
A peptic ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine, caused when acid damages the protective lining faster than it can repair itself. Contrary to old assumptions, stress and spicy food don't directly cause ulcers — the two leading causes are a specific bacterial infection and certain pain medications.
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is responsible for most peptic ulcers, and it's surprisingly common — many people carry it without ever developing an ulcer. Regular use of certain pain relievers is the other major cause, particularly when taken frequently over long periods.
Treatment depends on the cause: H. pylori infection is cleared with a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medication, while ulcers caused by pain medication usually improve once that medication is stopped or replaced, alongside medication to reduce stomach acid and allow healing.
See a doctor if: you notice dark or bloody stools, or vomiting blood — this needs urgent same-day care.
