Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are painful sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. These ulcers form when stomach acid damages the protective mucous barrier that normally keeps the stomach lining safe. Over time, this can create open wounds that lead to pain, burning sensations, and digestive discomfort.
Stomach ulcers are more common than many people think. They can affect both men and women, and people of any age group. With the right knowledge and lifestyle care, ulcers can be treated and in many cases prevented.
This article explains the causes, treatments, and prevention strategies in a simple and humanized way, so you can understand your condition clearly and protect your digestive health. If you are experiencing long-term symptoms, you may need to consult a specialist, and the top 10 gastroenterologist in surat can guide you with personalized treatment options.
What Causes Stomach Ulcers?
The two major causes of stomach ulcers are:
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
- Long-term use of certain painkillers
Other contributors include:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol intake
- High stress over a long period
- Acidic and spicy meals consumed frequently
- Family history of ulcers
- Untreated digestive conditions such as chronic gastritis
- pylori is a common bacteria that lives in the stomach. For some people, this bacteria inflames the stomach lining and leads to ulcers.
Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers
Many people ignore ulcer symptoms for a long time because they assume it is just acidity or gas. But ulcers have their own specific signs.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning pain in the stomach
- Pain especially when hungry or at night
- Bloating after eating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Black stool (a sign of bleeding inside)
- Frequent acidity
How Stomach Ulcers Are Diagnosed
A doctor may diagnose ulcers using:
- Endoscopy
- Breath test for H. pylori
- Stool test
- Blood test
Endoscopy is usually preferred because it allows direct viewing of the stomach lining and helps find ulcers clearly.
Treatment Options for Stomach Ulcers
Treatment depends on the root cause.
If caused by H. pylori
Doctors often prescribe antibiotics to remove the bacteria.
If caused by painkillers
Doctors may advise stopping or replacing the medication.
The main goal of treatment is to reduce acid in the stomach and allow the ulcer to heal.
Treatment may include:
- Acid-reducing medications (PPIs)
- H2 blockers
- Antacids
- Antibiotics (if bacterial infection)
- Dietary modifications
- Stress management
Never self-medicate for ulcers. Long-term painkillers or acidity tablets without a doctor’s advice can make ulcers worse.
Foods That May Help Support Stomach Ulcer Healing
- Bananas
- Oats
- Cabbage
- Leafy green vegetables
- Yoghurt with probiotics
- Ginger in small amounts
- Coconut water (natural hydration)
Foods To Limit
- Highly spicy foods
- Deep fried foods
- Carbonated drinks
- Excess caffeine
- Alcohol
- Red chilli based foods
Prevention Tips
To avoid ulcers or prevent them from worsening, you can follow these strategies:
- Eat at consistent meal times
- Avoid long gaps between meals
- Manage stress through breathing or exercise
- Limit painkillers unless needed
- Reduce or avoid alcohol
- Quit smoking
- Avoid lying down immediately after meals
Prevention Tips (Bullet Format)
- Handle stress through healthy habits
- Eat fiber-rich meals daily
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Take medications only as prescribed
- Drink enough water during the day
- Avoid spicy food when stomach pain occurs
- Get regular check-ups if you have long-term acidity
When Should You Visit a Doctor?
You should consider a doctor visit if:
- Symptoms are persistent and frequent
- Pain worsens during fasting or night-time
- You notice black stools
- You vomit blood or brown coffee-colored material
- Weight loss occurs without trying
Early treatment can protect the stomach lining and prevent serious complications like bleeding or perforation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can ulcers heal on their own?
Some mild ulcers may improve temporarily, but most need proper medical treatment. Without treatment, ulcers often return. - Does stress cause ulcers?
Stress does not directly cause ulcers but can worsen symptoms and slow healing. - Can acidity and ulcers be the same thing?
No. Many people confuse the two. Acidity is excess acid discomfort. An ulcer is an actual wound in the stomach lining. - How long does it take to heal a stomach ulcer?
With proper treatment, healing may take 4 to 8 weeks depending on severity. - Can drinking milk reduce ulcer pain?
Milk may give temporary relief, but it can stimulate more acid later. It should not be used as a treatment.
Final Thoughts
Stomach ulcers are serious but manageable. Early diagnosis, proper treatment, and healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce pain and prevent complications. If you have long-term acid-related discomfort, don’t ignore it. Consult a qualified stomach specialist so you can get clear answers and the right care for your digestive health.
