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Gastric Ulcer

Open sores in the mucosa of the stomach or duodenum.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Gastric Ulcer?

Peptic ulcer is an open sore forming on the inner surface of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or in the duodenum (duodenal ulcer). An ulcer forms when stomach acid and digestive enzymes overcome the mucosal protective layer.

In 70-80% of cases, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria are responsible; in the remaining cases, use of aspirin and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen etc.) is the main cause. It is known that stress and spicy foods alone do not cause ulcers, but can worsen an existing ulcer.

With H. pylori eradication and acid-suppressive therapy, the vast majority of ulcers heal successfully. If not treated, serious complications such as bleeding, perforation and stenosis can develop.

Symptoms

Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen (usually on empty stomach)
Pain relieved by food or antacids (duodenal ulcer)
Pain increasing after eating (gastric ulcer)
Nausea and bloating
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Black tarry stool or bloody vomiting (sign of bleeding)
Epigastric pain waking at night

Risk Factors

H. pylori infection
Regular NSAID or aspirin use
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Family history of peptic ulcer
Chronic stress
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (rare)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Black, tarry stool or bloody vomiting
  • Sudden and severe abdominal pain (suspicion of perforation — emergency!)
  • If accompanied by weight loss and loss of appetite
  • Persistent epigastric pain not relieved by antacids
  • Newly started stomach complaints after age 50

Treatment Methods

01
H. pylori eradication: proton pump inhibitor + 2 antibiotics (clarithromycin + amoxicillin)
02
Acid suppression with proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, pantoprazole)
03
Discontinuation of NSAID use or continuation with gastric protection (misoprostol)
04
Smoking and alcohol cessation
05
Control endoscopy at the end of treatment (mandatory for gastric ulcer)
06
Emergency surgery or endoscopic hemostasis in complications

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.