Conditions InDepth: Peptic Ulcer Disease

by EBSCO Medical Review Board

A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine. They are named based on their location. Gastric ulcers are in the stomach. Duodenal ulcers are in the first part of the small intestine.

Most peptic ulcers caused by:

A bacterial infection from H. pylori
Irritating medicines—such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Gastric Ulcer

Ulcers can lead to health problems, such as:

Bleeding—The stomach or intestine lining bleeds due to severe inflammation
Perforation—An ulcer that burns through the wall of the stomach and contents leak out
Obstruction—Scarring from ulcers blocks flow through the stomach and duodenum

Prompt treatment can help ulcers heal. It can also help ease symptoms and prevent other problems.

Duodenal Ulcer

What are the risk factors for peptic ulcer disease?What are the symptoms of peptic ulcer disease?How is peptic ulcer disease diagnosed?What are the treatments for peptic ulcer disease?Are there screening tests for peptic ulcer disease?How can I reduce my risk of peptic ulcer disease?What questions should I ask my doctor?Where can I get more information about peptic ulcer disease?

References

Lanas A, Chan FKL. Peptic ulcer disease. Lancet. 2017;390(10094):613-624.

Peptic ulcer disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/peptic-ulcer-disease. Accessed May 4, 2022.

Peptic ulcer disease. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/gastritis-and-peptic-ulcer-disease/peptic-ulcer-disease. Accessed May 4, 2022.

Peptic ulcers (stomach ulcers). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers/all-content. Accessed May 4, 2022.

Revision Information

Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Update Date: 05/04/2022

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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Revision Information