A stomach ulcer is a crater-like sore in the lining of the stomach
or in the first part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. These sores
also are called peptic or gastric ulcers.
Stomach ulcers may cause a dull, aching pain above the navel that
gets worse an hour or two after eating. In severe cases, ulcers can lead to
severe internal bleeding and a hole (perforation) in the stomach or
intestine.
Most stomach ulcers are caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria or by medication (such as
aspirin) that damages the stomach lining. Rarely, stomach ulcers are a result
of stomach cancer. The role stress plays in a person's developing a stomach
ulcer remains unclear.
Treatment includes medication to relieve symptoms and help heal the
ulcer. In severe cases of excess bleeding or if a hole develops in the stomach
or intestine, surgery may be needed.
