Overview
Ulcers form when the protective stomach/duodenal lining is damaged by acid.
Causes
• H. pylori
• NSAIDs
• Smoking
• Stress (contributing)
• Excess acid
Symptoms
• Burning epigastric pain
• Nausea
• Fullness
• Black/tarry stools
• Vomiting blood (severe)
Diagnosis
• Endoscopy
• H. pylori testing
Treatment
• PPIs
• H. pylori eradication
• Stop NSAIDs
• Lifestyle modifications
Complications
• Bleeding
• Perforation
• Obstruction